GB: Boosting relations of partnership with Tunisia

Great Britain aims to strengthen its relations with Tunisia, first country of the Arab spring, said Irfan Siddiq, head of the Arab Partnership Department at the UK Foreign Office, at a news conference held on Thursday. Explaining the outlines of the "The Arab Partnership Initiative" announced by British Prime Minister David Cameron, Siddiq reminded that the aim of this initiative is to support the Arab Revolution countries in the economic, social, cultural and political fields. Great Britain has released 110 million pounds over four years to finance projects as part of this initiative, Siddiq declared, adding that this partnership aims to help Tunisia and the countries of the Arab region which endeavour to establish greater political openness, develop their judicial systems, freedom of expression and democratisation of institutions . The British aid will focus on six priority sectors, namely increased political participation, information and freedom of expression, compliance with and enforcement of laws, transparency, employment and incentives to private sector and microcredits . On the other hand, Siddiq spoke of the political consensus now existing in Tunisia and representing, he said, an important factor for the country's partners, notably Great Britain and the European Union.