Fact check: viral video on EU aid to Tunisia and President Saïed's personal account is misleading
via Business News3 min read
A video circulating on Facebook, featuring European Commission spokesperson Ana Pisonero-Hernandez, falsely claims the European Union gave Tunisian President Kaïs Saïed one month to return 152 million euros deposited into his personal account for irregular African migrant aid. This claim generated significant reaction among Tunisian internet users, suggesting a conflict between Brussels and Tunis over migration. Investigations reveal the full video, published on October 24, 2024, by EU Debates TV, contains no such statements. Instead, the video addresses criticisms from the European Ombudsman regarding the European Commission's transparency in assessing human rights risks before signing a migration agreement with Tunisia. Pisonero-Hernandez reiterates the EU's commitment to human rights globally, including in Tunisia, and mentions 150 million euros in budgetary support for Tunisia's macroeconomic reforms. The video also discusses the European Ombudsman's recommendations, with the Commission spokesperson stating the Commission acknowledges the decision and suggestions for improvement, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability. She adds that the European approach to migration management is based on human rights. The video does not mention any demand for reimbursement from Kaïs Saïed, a one-month ultimatum, or a transfer of funds to his personal account. The agreement discussed in the video, announced in July 2023, involved EU financial aid for migration coop
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Must ReadThe Council of the League of Arab States unanimously approved the appointment of Nabil Fahmy as the organization's Secretary-General during a meeting of Arab foreign ministers held on Monday, June 22, 2026, in Amman. This information comes from the Arab League press office. Nabil Fahmy, a former Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs and seasoned diplomat, succeeds Ahmed Aboul Gheit. His five-year term will begin in July 2026. His nomination was endorsed by consensus at the ministerial meeting in Amman, confirming member states' support for his candidacy. Starting July 1, 2026, his mission will include coordinating common Arab action and monitoring key regional issues on the Arab League's agenda.
The Committee on External Relations, International Cooperation, Affairs of Tunisians Abroad, and Migration continued its review of the proposed bill to establish a National Council for Tunisians Residing Abroad on Monday, June 22, 2026. The committee heard from the president of the National Council of the Order of Physicians and the dean of Tunisian engineers. The discussions focused on strengthening ties between the state and Tunisian professionals abroad, leveraging their expertise for national development, and addressing brain drain. The committee president, Riadh Jaidane, stated the initiative aims to improve communication with the diaspora, address their concerns, and enhance their contribution to development projects. The dean of Tunisian engineers praised the initiative as a significant step to strengthen ties and increase contributions to economic, scientific, and social development. He proposed direct representation for engineers within the council through the Order of Tunisian Engineers, the creation of a permanent commission for engineering and technology skills, and a national digital platform to connect with Tunisian professionals abroad. He noted that Tunisian engineers abroad hold key positions in strategic sectors like energy, infrastructure, industry, aeronautics, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and renewable energies. He emphasized that emigration can be a strategic asset if there is a legal and institutional framework to involve these profe
Mohamed Ali Nafti, Tunisia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, met with his Algerian counterpart, Ahmed Attaf, Minister of State, Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, on June 22, 2026, in Amman. The meeting, held on the sidelines of an Arab ministerial gathering, focused on Tunisian-Algerian cooperation. Discussions centered on preparing for the upcoming Tunisian-Algerian Follow-up Commission, scheduled for next month. Key areas of cooperation reviewed included trade, industry, and energy. The ministers also addressed improving consular services and facilitating the movement and residency of Tunisian and Algerian nationals across the border. Beyond bilateral issues, Nafti and Attaf exchanged views on regional and international matters, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening consultation and coordination between Tunis and Algiers to address common challenges and regional developments. This meeting highlights the ongoing cooperation between the two countries, aiming to consolidate their partnership in economic, energy, and security sectors, while also facilitating exchanges between their citizens.