Italy Commits €400 Million to Support Tunisia’s Energy Initiatives

Italy has committed 400 million euros to support Tunisia’s energy transition and renewable energy development. The two countries formalized the agreement on Thursday, marking a significant boost to their cooperation. The new pledge is double Italy’s previous financial commitment under a 2021-2023 agreement.

The agreement was signed in Rome by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohammed Ali Nafti, who highlighted the importance of energy in the partnership. Nafti stated, “Energy was a very important point in our talks after signing the energy conversion agreement. 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.”

The renewed agreement emphasizes Tunisia’s crucial role in energy security and regional cooperation. As part of the deal, Italy aims to assist Tunisia in modernizing its energy infrastructure and advancing sustainable energy solutions. This collaboration is also seen as a key step toward establishing a stronger energy corridor between North Africa and Europe, which could provide reliable energy resources for both regions.

When questioned about Tunisia’s treatment of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, Tajani defended the country’s stance, stating that Tunisia remains a safe and friendly partner. He acknowledged concerns about migration but pointed out that Tunisia has made substantial contributions to fighting illegal immigration and human trafficking. Tajani remarked, “One may not even agree with some analyses that are being done. We consider Tunisia a safe country, a friendly country. 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.”

Italy’s focus on developing partnerships with African nations is part of a broader strategy spearheaded by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, known as the Mattei Plan. Named after Enrico Mattei, the founder of Italy’s state-owned oil and gas company Eni, the plan aims to create jobs and opportunities across Africa to reduce the factors that push people to migrate, particularly across the dangerous central Mediterranean route to Europe.

The Mattei Plan has gained attention due to the surge in migrant arrivals to Italy. In her first year in office, Meloni saw a significant rise in migrant numbers, with 160,000 reaching Italy in 2023. However, she has pointed to the policy’s success in reducing migration in 2024. Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, reported a 59% decrease in migrant crossings along the central Mediterranean route in 2024, which has been attributed to the reduced number of boats departing from Tunisia and Libya.

Despite the decline, the central Mediterranean route remains one of the busiest migration paths, with 67,000 crossings recorded in 2024. The decrease in numbers reflects the effectiveness of Italy’s diplomatic and development initiatives, but the route remains a major challenge for both Tunisia and Europe in addressing migration flows.

Italy’s 400 million-euro commitment to Tunisia is seen as part of this broader effort to stabilize the region, with energy collaboration at its core. By supporting Tunisia’s transition to renewable energy, Italy not only strengthens bilateral relations but also aims to contribute to regional stability, which is essential for tackling broader issues like migration.

This commitment is expected to foster closer ties between the two nations, facilitating the growth of renewable energy projects, promoting economic development, and addressing some of the root causes of migration. The energy collaboration, in particular, is a critical aspect of Italy’s strategy for ensuring both energy security and a more sustainable future for North Africa and Europe.

In conclusion, Italy’s new commitment to Tunisia marks an important step in deepening bilateral relations and advancing energy transition goals. By aligning their interests in renewable energy, the two countries aim to create a sustainable energy future and work together to address challenges related to migration, regional stability, and economic development.