Tunisia, Libya and Algeria unite on migration

Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti has announced that Tunisia, Libya and Algeria will hold a second joint taskforce meeting soon to align positions and adopt common measures to curb irregular migration. He also revealed that a new development project is being prepared at the Ras Jedir border crossing in coordination with COMESA.

Speaking during a parliamentary session on the 2026 state budget, Nafti said Tunisia aims to deepen cooperation with Libya by strengthening economic and commercial ties, facilitating the movement of goods and travellers, and transforming Ras Jedir into an integrated economic zone.

‘Tunisia will not be a land for settling migrants’

Responding to questions from MPs, Nafti reiterated that Tunisia refuses to become a country of transit, settlement or disembarkation for migrants. He stressed, however, that Tunisia remains committed to human rights, describing migrants as victims of economic hardship and human-trafficking networks.

The minister added that Tunisia is increasing its contribution to the International Organization for Migration to expand voluntary return programmes, noting that more than 19,000 migrants have returned to their home countries up to October.

Economic cooperation with Libya

Nafti’s comments come as economic coordination between Tunisia and Libya accelerates. On 21 October, both countries held a joint meeting to discuss investment, trade and the promotion of Tunisian and Libyan products, with Libya’s Minister of Economy, Mohamed al-Hweij, reaffirming Tripoli’s commitment to deeper economic integration and joint access to African markets.