Tunisia’s President Kais Saied has reaffirmed his commitment to cracking down on irregular migration, warning that the country will not tolerate unauthorised migrants on its territory, according to a report by Anadolu Agency.
In a statement released by the presidency, Saied made these remarks during a meeting with Ivorian Foreign Minister Kacou Adom at the Carthage Palace in Tunis. He emphasised that while Tunisia welcomes its African brothers and is dedicated to treating them with humanity, it will not permit irregular migrants to reside within its borders.
Saied underscored the importance of adopting a comprehensive strategy to address irregular migration, aiming to eliminate its root causes, dismantle the criminal networks involved, and combat human trafficking and the illicit organ trade.
Tunisian authorities have been regularly thwarting attempts by irregular migrants to reach European shores, with hundreds of migrants—both from Tunisia and other African nations—being apprehended each week.
Facing mounting pressure from Europe to tighten control over its coastline, Tunisia has been urged to prevent migrant boats from departing for Europe.
Saied has repeatedly stated that Tunisia will not become a resettlement area for irregular migrants and is determined to ensure the country does not become a transit point for them.