France will stand by the Tunisians’ side at this crucial moment for the sovereignty and freedom of the country, Macron said in a phone call with President Kais Saied after a statement by the Elysée Palace on Saturday. The former colonial power still maintains close ties to the North African country. In return, the Tunisian President announced that he would soon be presenting a roadmap for further action.
Saied had dismissed Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi almost two weeks ago and suspended parliamentary work for an initial 30 days. Several of the president’s critics have been arrested or placed under house arrest. According to observers, the arrests of the politicians concerned have so far always been linked to older proceedings. Saied has now filled several ministerial posts. The appointment of a new head of government is still pending.
Tunisia has also been struggling with a severe economic crisis for a long time and has been hard hit by the corona pandemic. France and other countries supply vaccine, ventilators and other medical supplies.