Italy and Tunisia Sign €400 Million Agreement to Boost Energy Transition and Renewables

Italy and Tunisia have signed a landmark €400 million deal to enhance their cooperation on energy transition and renewable energy initiatives. The two-year partnership, formalized in Rome, marks a significant increase in Italy’s financial commitment compared to previous agreements under the 2021-2023 accord.

The agreement was signed by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and his Tunisian counterpart, Mohammed Ali Nafti, during a ceremony in Rome. This new collaboration aims to accelerate development efforts, particularly in the energy sector, and strengthen bilateral ties.

Nafti emphasized the importance of energy in their discussions, noting, “This is a very important step that will strengthen the collaboration between us in this vital sector. We will also work on other projects to make our two countries far ahead in terms of energy and to have an energy corridor, if you can say that, to connect Northern Africa with Europe.”

Addressing concerns over Tunisia’s treatment of sub-Saharan African migrants, Tajani reaffirmed Italy’s support for Tunisia, calling it a “safe, friendly country.” He added, “On the other hand, we contribute to the growth of that country and we do not see excessive dangers for Tunisian citizens. Tunisia has also made an important contribution in the fight against illegal immigration and human traffickers.”

This agreement is part of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s broader strategy to enhance Africa-Europe relations under the Mattei Plan, named after Enrico Mattei, founder of the energy company Eni. The initiative aims to drive economic growth in African nations and address the root causes of irregular migration across the central Mediterranean.