CDA Remarks at Fortinet Security Day Event Thursday, October 5, 2023, Good morning. I am delighted to be here today at the beginning of Cybersecurity Awareness Month to recognize the critical work of U.S. companies like Fortinet. I want to thank Mr. Yacine Djemaiel, the Director General of Tunisia’s cybersecurity agency, and other Tunisian …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 5 October, 2023 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, News, Science & Tech, U.S. & Tunisia
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi met with Prime Minister Najla Bouden to discuss a range of bilateral, regional, and global matters. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi underscored U.S. support for implementing economic reforms and moving towards an agreement with the IMF to address economic challenges and achieve economic prosperity for all Tunisians. The meeting was also …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 27 January, 2023 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, News
As part of our continued celebration of International Education Day, Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi, Chief of Staff to the Minister of Education Nizar Terzi, and UNICEF Country Representative Michel Le Pechoux visited the Second Chance Center for Guidance and Reintegration in Bab El Khadra to learn about the school-dropout prevention program supported by the U.S. …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 25 January, 2023 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, News
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi met with Minister of Culture Hayet Ketat Guermazi to discuss cooperation on programs focused on supporting the economy and promoting job creation in underserved regions over the next four years through USAID’s $50 million Visit Tunisia project. They also discussed ongoing efforts to preserve Tunisia’s rich cultural heritage through over $830,000 …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 12 January, 2023 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Culture, Events, Foreign Assistance, Public Affairs | Tags: USAID
The U.S. Embassy in Tunisia was pleased to facilitate a 5G security workshop for Tunisian partners with the U.S. Department of Commerce, Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and other U.S. and international partners to share best practices. The workshop was launched with the participation of Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi and Minister of Communication Technologies Nizar …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 12 January, 2023 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Science & Tech
In Nabeul, the United States has assisted over 1,200 companies and small producers across various sectors, including handicrafts, textiles, information services, waste management, and food production. Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi traveled to Grombalia to visit the factory of SIAME, a Tunisian manufacturer of electric meters. The visit provided an opportunity to learn about SIAME’s …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 14 December, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Deputy Assistant to the President and National Security Council Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa Brett McGurk, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Yael Lempert, and National Security Council Director for North Africa Jeremy Berndt visited Tunisia on December 7. During the visit, the delegation met with President Kais Saied, …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 8 December, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Near East & North Africa, News, U.S. & Tunisia
The Center for Arab and Mediterranean Music (CMAM), under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with U.S. Embassy Tunisia launched the Conservation of Musical Instruments project at the Ennejma Ezzahra Palace in Sidi Bou Said. This three-year project, funded by CMAM and the Department of State’s Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 1 December, 2022 | Topics: Art & Culture, Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Remarks by Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi Brigadier General Solem, Vice Admiral Atallah, Director Bardaoui (MFA), Senior Captain Nasri (or senior MOD rep), Mayor Bayoudh, fellow Ambassadors, members of the Diplomatic and Military Attaché Corps, other honored guests…welcome to today’s ceremony. And to all the men and women who currently wear or have worn the uniforms …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 11 November, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, embassy, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with Minister of Environment Leila Chikhaoui to discuss Tunisia’s preparations for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP27) taking place in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt from November 6 to 18. Chargée Franceschi and Minister Chikhaoui discussed ongoing efforts to reduce and mitigate the effects of climate change.
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 8 November, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met today with Minister of Finance Sihem Boughediri Nemsia to discuss efforts to strengthen Tunisia’s economy and the recently announced staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi reiterated that the United States remains committed to long-term prosperity for the Tunisian people through ongoing programs aimed …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 5 November, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Did you know the historic site of Utique is 127 years older than Carthage? It is brimming with cultural history spanning Phoenician, Punic, and Roman civilizations, but much remains to be discovered. As part of the Embassy-funded “Tourath” project, Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited the Tunisian Scouts who are participating in an excavation camp …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 2 November, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance
In celebration of Entrepreneurship Month, Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited HawKar, a Tunisian start-up developing an electric vehicle specially adapted for those with reduced mobility. Co-founder and CEO Khadija Jallouli discussed the importance of the independence the vehicle offers those with accessibility challenges and also detailed the innovative local manufacturing, citing that 60 percent …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 2 November, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met today with Minister of Economy and Planning Samir Said to discuss economic developments in Tunisia, including the recent announcement of Tunisia’s staff-level agreement with the IMF. She also underscored the U.S. commitment to supporting Tunisians facing economic challenges through the recent $60 million contribution to the Social Safety Net …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 29 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
In celebration of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, U.S. Embassy Tunis partnered with the Higher Institute of Technological Studies in Communications of Tunis (ISET’Com) to launch its new Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, an innovative space that offers students expert-level cybersecurity skills and professional accreditation opportunities. Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi joined Ministry of Communication Technologies Chief of …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 27 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, Scholarships and Exchanges
Deputy Assistant Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development Megan Doherty visited Tunisia from October 12 to 20 to meet with representatives from the private sector to see how U.S.-supported companies like Betacube are contributing to the growth of the private sector. During her visit, she also met with representatives from Tunisia’s vibrant civil …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 24 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Foreign Assistance, Key Officials, USAID
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Fisheries Mahmoud Elyes Hamza to discuss ongoing bilateral cooperation in support of Tunisia’s agricultural sector, and the growing challenges due to the impact of climate change. Chargée Franceschi also reviewed U.S. assistance to help mitigate global food insecurity exacerbated by Russia’s aggression …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 24 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, News
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi and USAID Deputy Assistant Administrator Megan Doherty visited Kairouan last week and met with members of the National Union of Tunisian Women and engaged with local women entrepreneurs who received technical and financial assistance from the U.S. Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). They also visited …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 20 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, Key Officials, USAID
On his first visit to North Africa since taking command of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Michael Langley visited Tunisia October 18-19. During his visit, General Langley and Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with Minister of National Defense Imed Memmiche to underscore the importance of the U.S.-Tunisia longstanding military partnership and participated in a …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 20 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance
Chargee d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi and USAID’s Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Middle East Megan Doherty signed a $20 million loan program with the General Manager of Advans Tunisia, Meriem Zine, to support small and medium-sized Tunisian businesses, particularly enterprises in the country’s interior regions. Through this Development Finance Corporation DFC-USAID program, women-owned and underserved …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 20 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Christopher Le Mon visited Tunisia from October 14 to 16 to meet with representatives from Tunisia’s vibrant civil society who are advocating for an inclusive democratic political process that protects fundamental freedoms, including the rights to free expression and peaceful assembly. He also underscored the United …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 18 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Human Rights, Key Officials
The United States was proud to participate in the 2022 International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (IADE) taking place at Tunisia’s Enfidha-Hammamet Airport. Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi and Lt. General John Lamontagne, Deputy Commander of the United States Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa, inaugurated the U.S. Pavilion. In a press conference, Chargée Franceschi and Lt. …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 14 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Tunis – October 13, 2022 The Ministry of Social Affairs, the United States, and UNICEF launched today a $60 million program that will expand Tunisia’s national Social Safety Net system to provide direct support for children and vulnerable families across Tunisia. The program will provide immediate relief to children from vulnerable families as the world …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 14 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, News
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with Prime Minister Najla Bouden to discuss the importance of achieving economic prosperity for Tunisians. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi underscored U.S. support for implementing economic reforms and moving swiftly towards an agreement with the IMF to address economic challenges.
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 8 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, News
The United States delivered an additional 100,620 doses of the Pfizer vaccine to Tunisia as part of the COVAX mechanism, bringing the total U.S. donated vaccines to Tunisia to 3 million doses since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. The United States remains committed to working hand in hand with Tunisians to save lives and overcome the …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 6 October, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi joined Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Dr. Celeste Wallander and Tunisian Minister of National Defense Imed Memmiche for the 35th U.S.-Tunisia Joint Military Commission which took place September 27-28, 2022 at USAFRICOM headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. The Joint Military Commission reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-Tunisia bilateral defense …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 29 September, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Key Officials, U.S. & Tunisia | Tags: Military Assistance
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met today with Minister of Social Affairs Malek Zahi to discuss bilateral cooperation on a range of global issues, including Tunisia’s efforts to eliminate child labor. During the meeting, Chargée d’Affaires Franceschi also expressed the United States’ commitment to assisting vulnerable families hardest hit by Tunisia’s economic challenges.
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 21 September, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, News
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi met with members of the first Tunisian delegation to participate in the SelectUSA Investment Summit, the highest profile event in the United States dedicated to promoting Foreign Direct Investment. During the Summit, these 13 entrepreneurs pitched their products to a panel of American investors to seek funding and access to U.S. …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 15 September, 2022 | Topics: Business, Chargé D’Affaires, Commercial Opportunities, Doing Business in the U.S., Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: Foreign Assistance Unit
During her trip to Tunisia, Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs Kelli Seybolt met with Minister of Defense Imed Memmiche to discuss bilateral military cooperation and Tunisia’s vital role in maintaining regional stability and security. During the visit, Deputy Under Secretary Seybolt and Chargee d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi met with female Tunisian …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 10 September, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Key Officials, News
Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with the President of the Third Republic Party, Olfa Hamdi, to discuss political and economic developments in Tunisia. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi reiterated the importance of diverse voices in Tunisia’s political process and highlighted Embassy programming that supports entrepreneurs and young leaders to drive economic growth in Tunisia.
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 9 September, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi joined the Minister of Vocational Training and Employment Nasreddine Nsibi to celebrate Education for Employment’s (EFE) 10th anniversary in Tunisia and the successful completion of an U.S. Embassy funded project to support job creation for young Tunisians from marginalized communities. Since 2012 the U.S. Embassy has provided more than $5 million …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 8 September, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: Assistance Unit Economic Success Stories, Foreign Assistance Unit
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi joined the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Tunisia to announce the launch of the U.S. Business Visa Program on August 31, 2022. Through this program, AmCham Tunisia members will be able to request expedited visa appointments for business travel to the United States. The U.S. Business Visa Program aims to …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 7 September, 2022 | Topics: Business, Chargé D’Affaires, Doing Business in the U.S., Events, News, Visas
U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Rob Portman (R-OH), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Representatives Dave Joyce (R-OH), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), and David Price (D-NC) led a congressional delegation on a visit to Tunisia on August 21-22. Members of the delegation met with President Kais Saied at Carthage Palace. They also met with representatives of Tunisian civil …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 22 August, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Key Officials
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with Minister of Foreign Affairs Othman Jerandi August 12 to discuss the continued U.S.-Tunisia partnership on regional and global issues. The Chargée noted the importance of an inclusive and transparent reform process going forward, including via the adoption of an electoral law that facilitates the broadest possible participation in …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 13 August, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
In Mahdia, Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi and USAID Tunisia Mission Director Scott Dobberstein visited Skila Tendance, a handicraft company specializing in producing silk scarves, and VIPA, an agribusiness that processes and packages healthy snack foods. In the governorate of Mahdia alone, the U.S. Embassy has assisted over 700 small and medium-sized enterprises leading to …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 24 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with Governor of Sousse Nebil Ferjani as part of her trip to the region. During the meeting, the Chargée discussed with the Governor U.S. programs throughout the region aimed at supporting small and medium-sized businesses to obtain grants and access to financing to support employment opportunities for youth and …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 22 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
While in Sousse Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi and USAID Tunisia Mission Director Scott Dobberstein met with co-founders Wael Ben Lamine and Oussama Ghazel at Xpert-Meca, an innovative startup specializing in industrial machinery design, manufacturing, and maintenance and their team of young engineers. Thanks to U.S. Government support through USAID, the startup was able to …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 22 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi and Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Moncef Boukthir celebrated the return of our Thomas Jefferson Scholarship Program (TJSP) who spent an academic year in the United States. These 27 young leaders from across Tunisia shared with Minister Boukthir and Chargée Franceschi stories from their experience, where they gained …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 22 July, 2022 | Topics: Alumni, Chargé D’Affaires, Education, Events
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi met with President of Afek Tounes Fadhel Abdelkafi to discuss recent political and economic developments in Tunisia. During the meeting, the Chargée reiterated the importance of Tunisia’s diverse voices in advancing Tunisia’s democratic process.
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 19 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited MONTAPI , a woman-owned carpet manufacturer in Beja led by CEO Jalila Jlouli and her team. Through USAID, the United States has helped Montapi, along with 1,488 other SMEs in Beja, to develop their online sales platforms and technical capabilities as part of our continued commitment to creating new …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 12 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited El Baraka, an agricultural and artisanal cooperative in Jendouba led by Mabrouka Athimni, a pioneer in distilling essential oils and floral waters. In addition to managing her business, Mabrouka volunteers her time to train other women artisans. Through our 15.6 million TND ACEA Tunisia program, the U.S. is proud to support …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 11 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: Assistance Unit Economic Success Stories, Foreign Assistance Unit
While in El Kef this week, Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited olive-wood workshop and factory Oliva Wood. CEO Bechir Ben Saied and his team took the Chargée on a tour to see how U.S. assistance, through USAID, has helped diversify the business’s products and expand the company’s access to international markets. Thanks to this …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 10 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited the Mu-sicca Club of El Kef, one of Tunisia88 Project music clubs in the governorate, where she attended another stellar performance showcasing Tunisia’s musical talent. We are proud of our continuous support to Tunisia88 which is giving more than 20,000 young Tunisians in all 24 governorates the opportunity to explore …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 10 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance
During her visit to El Kef, Chargée d’affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited the Ain Babbouch Agricultural Cooperative in Tejerouine where she met with founder, Lamia Cherni, and women artisan members of the cooperative to learn about their work in producing essential oils, floral waters, and dried herbs and how they contribute to Tunisia’s economy. As …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 8 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: Assistance Unit Economic Success Stories, Foreign Assistance Unit
In El Kef, youth are engaged and passionate about their community! A dynamic group of youth met with Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi during her visit to the Mohamed Gammoudi Youth Center that was renovated by USAID to serve as a multi-purpose space for dance, theater, sports, and photography clubs. Through USAID’s Ma3an Tunisia program, we are proud …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 7 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with the Governor of El Kef Mokhtar Nefzi as part of her trip to the region. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi and the Governor talked about U.S. Embassy programs in El Kef that provide assistance to over 400 small and medium-sized enterprises, offer employment and training opportunities for rural …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 6 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi’s Independence Day Remarks Distinguished Ministers, Members of Parliament, friends from the diplomatic corps, esteemed guests, colleagues, and my fellow Americans. Aslema, bonsoir, and good evening Thank you all for joining us this evening in celebration of the 246th birthday of the United States of America. I am truly honored to …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 2 July, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met yesterday with the Governor of Tunis Kamel Fekih. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi discussed with the Governor our continued partnership on U.S. programs aimed at providing employment and training opportunities to support Tunisia’s economic development and prosperity, especially in the tourism sector. The Chargée and the Governor also discussed …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 30 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited the Oudhna archaeological site to review our ongoing project to renovate the site’s ancient cisterns as part of the U.S.-funded Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. While at Oudhna, Chargée Franceschi engaged with the Tunisian Scouts who are actively preserving prominent cultural heritage sites across Tunisia, like Oudhna, by volunteering …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 18 June, 2022 | Topics: Art & Culture, Chargé D’Affaires, Culture, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with the President of the Independent High Authority for Elections (ISIE) Farouk Bouaskar to discuss the importance of the authority’s role in ensuring the transparency of the upcoming referendum and parliamentary elections. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to supporting free and fair elections in Tunisia—a …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 17 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Human Rights
Chargé d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi joined 50 women entrepreneurs from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, among them 15 women from Tunisia for a virtual networking session. The entrepreneurs were selected as finalists in the U.S. Department of State- and Google-led Women Tech Founders Program. These talented entrepreneurs will access trainings by Google’s tech …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 17 June, 2022 | Topics: Business, Chargé D’Affaires, Commercial Affairs, Events
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi met with UNHCR Representative Hanan Hamdan, UN Resident Coordinator Arnaud Peral, IOM Chief of Mission Azzouz Samri, and ICRC Head of Delegation Rania Machlab to discuss rising migrant and refugee populations in North Africa. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi underscored the U.S. commitment to finding immediate and long-term solutions to the …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 15 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with Minister of Interior Taoufik Charfeddine to discuss bilateral security cooperation as part of the U.S.-Tunisia Joint Security Action Strategy (JSAS). Chargée Franceschi underscored the importance of upholding the rule of law and respect for human rights as fundamental shared democratic values.
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 10 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with National Salvation Front (NSF) leader Ahmed Nejib Chebbi to discuss the vision of the NSF for the future of Tunisia. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi underscored the importance of Tunisia’s diverse voices to ensuring a transparent political and economic reform process.
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 9 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with Secretary General of the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT) Noureddine Tabboubi to discuss the economic and social challenges facing Tunisia in the coming period. Chargée Franceschi reiterated the importance of including a diverse range of Tunisian voices to ensure a transparent, inclusive, and credible economic reform process.
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 8 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi visited Coopérative Lella Kmar الشركة التعاونية المركزية للا قمر البية , a 250-member women’s cooperative that cultivates and transforms traditional Tunisian grains into artisanal Tunisian food products. The Chargée met with founder Layla Mhimdi and her team to learn how USAID has helped the cooperative expand operations and increase production of semolina and couscous. The United States is committed to …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 6 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi hosted a group of young Tunisian environmentalists who represented Tunisia at the 2021 COP-26 environmental conference in Glasgow and are on their way to represent their country in this year’s COP-27 in Egypt. Tackling climate change is a priority for the United States. We are proud to see talented youth …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 6 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Environment, Events
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi joined the Minister of Social Affairs Malek Zahi and the Minister of Family, Women, Childhood and the Elderly Amel Moussa Belhaj to launch the Idmej project to support the inclusion of vulnerable communities. Through this $4 million grant, Idmej aims to help eliminate gender-based violence by supporting women’s shelters and …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 3 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: Assistance Unit DRG Success Stories, Foreign Assistance Unit
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met this week with the Minister of Social Affairs Malek Zahi to discuss bilateral cooperation on ongoing assistance projects. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi underscored the U.S. commitment to advancing human rights, equality, and inclusion for all. The U.S. Embassy is currently partnering with the Ministry to implement the Supporting …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 3 June, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, News
TUNIS – On Memorial Day May 30, 2022, U.S. Embassy Tunisia Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Tunisian Foreign Minister Othman Jerandi at the North Africa American Cemetery in Carthage, Tunisia. The MOU paves the way for the disinterment of the remains of unidentified American service men and women who gave their lives in the service of the United States during WWII’s North …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 31 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, U.S. & Tunisia
U.S. Embassy Tunisia Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi, U.S. Special Envoy and Ambassador to Libya Richard B. Norland, and Commissioner of the American Battle Monuments Commission Darrell Dorgan led a ceremony yesterday at the North Africa American Cemetery as part of U.S Embassy’s Memorial Day commemorations. On this special day, Americans honor and reflect upon …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 28 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Admiral Robert Burke, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Allied Joint Forces Command Naples joined Tunisian Minister of Defense Imed Memmiche and U.S. Embassy Chargée d’affaires a.i. Natasha Franceschi for the opening ceremony of the 17th annual maritime exercise PhoenixExpress 2022 in Tunisia. A congressional delegation led by Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) also attended the ceremony. …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 25 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, News
Who doesn’t love Tunisian dates? Tunisia is the world’s largest exporter of dates thanks to companies like @JektisAgro in Zarzis. Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi visited founder Mohamed Tahar Jaziri and his team to see how U.S. assistance has helped diversify products and contributed to the creation of new jobs. To date, we’ve invested nearly …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 22 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Investing in innovative tech startups is key to Tunisia’s economic future! During her trip to Zarzis, Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi engaged with Tunisian tech experts at the Smart Center at Zarzis Park. Partner companies like Bimatech, Softifi, and Podyam, are just a few examples of the U.S. Embassy’s investments in Zarzis that have translated …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 21 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance
As part of her visit to Djerba, Chargée d’affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi enjoyed a toٍur of the handicraft village in Houmet Souk. Chargée Franceschi visited with talented local artisans and learned more about the role of the handicraft sector in supporting Tunisia’s economy. U.S. Embassy Tunisia is working closely with Tunisian artisans, through a 16 …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 20 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: Assistance Unit Economic Success Stories, Foreign Assistance Unit
During her trip to Zarzis, Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi toured the commercial port, Gare Maritime Zarzis, where she highlighted the port’s potential as a critical gateway for Tunisia’s exports. She later stopped by Société El Bahhar, a commercial seafood company, and met with the founder, Ali Agrebi, a visionary who is contributing to Tunisia’s standing …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 20 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi attended the opening ceremony of the Ghriba pilgrimage in Djerba yesterday, inaugurated by Prime Minister Najla Bouden. Djerba is home to one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world dating back more than 2,500 years. This annual pilgrimage is a testament to Tunisia’s multicultural heritage and interfaith tolerance. “We …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 19 May, 2022 | Topics: Art & Culture, Chargé D’Affaires, Events
While in Djerba, Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi visited CoZi , the first coworking space in southern Tunisia, where she met with CEO Mohamed Ben Ghazi and a group of young Tunisian entrepreneurs, freelancers, and start-ups. The United States, through USAID, has helped Ghazi and his team expand CoZi as an incubation and acceleration hub for aspiring …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 19 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with health professionals at the Polyclinique Djerba Centre and delivered certificates for their participation in the U.S.-funded Education For Employment program. To date, EFE has provided technical training and helped 671 young Tunisians secure employment opportunities from the interior regions of the country. The U.S. Embassy is proud to support Djerba’s private …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 18 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: Assistance Unit Economic Success Stories, Foreign Assistance Unit
Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi met with the Governor of Medenine, Said Ben Zayed, as part of her visit to the region. During the meeting, Chargée Franceschi discussed with the Governor U.S. programs throughout the region aimed at providing employment and training opportunities in support of Tunisia’s economic development and prosperity. In Medenine, the United …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 18 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi met with Minister of Tourism Mohamed Moez Belhassine today to discuss the importance of Tunisia’s tourism and handicraft sectors in fostering sustainable economic growth in communities across Tunisia. Through USAID’s newly launched $50 million “Visit Tunisia” project, the U.S. government is partnering with Tunisia’s tourism sector to, create 15,000 new sustainable …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 16 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Foreign Assistance, Travel & Tourism, USAID
Acting Assistant Secretary Yael Lempert and Chargée d’affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi toured the Gourmandise factory in La Soukra with founder and CEO Radhia Kamoun, where they heard the remarkable story of how Radhia transformed her mother’s passion for Tunisian pastries into a renowned patisserie chain encompassing 26 stores and employing over 600 Tunisians, more than …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 15 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi hosted the Mayors of Tunis Souad Abderrahim, Carthage Hayet Bayoudh, and La Goulette Amel el-Ksir Limmam. “I was proud to meet today with these distinguished Tunisian women leaders who represent Tunisia’s commitment to public service and to fostering gender equality. We discussed the strong ties between our two countries and our …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 12 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events
Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi hosted an iftar at her residence for six distinguished TechWomen and TechGirls representing Tunisia’s future generation of leaders in STEM fields. These program participants gained mentorship experiences, developed their skills through workshops, and engaged with America’s most innovative tech professionals during their three-week programs in the United States. We are proud …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 5 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events | Tags: TecGirls, TecWomen
Chargée d’affaires, a.i. Natasha Franceschi joined the I-Watch team for the closing ceremony of the “Upstream Access to Information” project. Through 350 partnerships with municipalities and 24 associations across Tunisia, this U.S. government project funded through the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) provided Tunisians with greater access to information and increased transparency. “Projects like “Upstream Access to Information” showcase the …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 5 May, 2022 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: Assistance Unit DRG Success Stories, Foreign Assistance Unit
As we celebrate Women’s Month, we renew our commitment to supporting women’s economic and social empowerment. U.S. Embassy Chargée d’Affaires Natasha Franceschi joined Mayor of Tunis Souad Abderrahim and Governor Kamel Fekih to inaugurate two refurbished public spaces in the historic Medina funded by USAID – US Agency for International Development as part of the Femme Medina program. Chargée d’Affaires Franceschi visited …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 11 March, 2022 | Topics: Business, Chargé D’Affaires, Foreign Assistance, USAID
We welcome the arrival of a new shipment of 301,860 doses of the Pfizer vaccine to Tunisia this morning, bringing the total to 2.3 million doses delivered since July. We are proud to work side by side with the Tunisian people and government to fight this global pandemic. The United States’ vaccine donation was provided …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 7 December, 2021 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance | Tags: COVID-19
Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, Erica Thibault joined the Mayor of Tunis, Souad Abderrahim, to inaugurate the USAID-funded Femme Medina program. This $500,000 USD initiative will support 11 activities in the Medina, Bab Souika, Sidi El Béchir, and Bab Bhar districts, implemented in partnership with the Office of the Mayor of Tunis. Through Femme Medina, …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 5 October, 2021 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events, Foreign Assistance, USAID
Tunis, September 10, 2021 – Keeping to our commitment of leading the global fight against COVID-19, the United States is delivering 687,960 additional doses of the Pfizer vaccine to Tunisia through the COVAX mechanism. The first tranche of the vaccines, constituting of almost 500,000 doses arrived in Tunisia today, to be followed by the remaining doses on Monday, …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 10 September, 2021 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Foreign Assistance, Press Releases, USAID | Tags: COVID-19
In celebration of Women’s History Month, Ambassador and Mrs. Blome received Mayor of Tunis Ms. Souad Abderrahim, Mayor of Carthage Ms. Hayet Bayoudh, and Mayor of La Goulette Ms. Amel Limam along with members of the U.S. Embassy. Ambassador Blome reiterated U.S. commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment both at home and around the …
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By U.S. Embassy Tunis | 31 March, 2021 | Topics: Chargé D’Affaires, Events