Tunisian President Kais Saied emphasized that the internal affairs of every Arab nation must be resolved by its own people without any foreign interference. The Tunisian presidency stated that this came during his meeting with Maher Boulos, the U.S. President’s Senior Advisor for Arab, Middle Eastern, and African Affairs.

The discussions addressed the situation in the Arab region, particularly the Palestinian issue. President Saied affirmed that the Palestinian people are the rightful owners of the land in Gaza and the West Bank, despite the division and fragmentation they have endured. He pointed out that the tragedies they face require bold decisions.

The two sides also discussed issues of mutual interest, foremost among them the fight against "terrorism." Saied noted that Tunisia has chosen to expand its strategic partnerships in ways that serve its people’s interests and meet their demands.

The Tunisian president recalled the principles outlined in the Treaty of Versailles concerning peoples' right to self-determination, stressing that this principle is violated daily in occupied Palestine. "The images coming from there reveal scenes that shock all of humanity and reflect the brutality of the occupation forces in their attempts to exterminate an entire people—but they will not succeed," he said.

For his part, Boulos highlighted the strength of Tunisian-American relations, expressing his pleasure at visiting Tunisia as both nations prepare to celebrate over 200 years of friendship between their peoples. He expressed his eagerness to explore ways of cooperation for shared interests to achieve a safer and more prosperous region.

Earlier Meetings Reinforce Bilateral Ties

Earlier in the day, U.S. Senior Advisor Boulos, accompanied by Joshua Harris, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for North African Affairs, met with Tunisian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, Nabil Ammar.

Both sides emphasized the depth and strength of the historical relations between the two countries, spanning over 228 years, which have continued post-independence based on mutual respect and shared interests. They reiterated their joint commitment to further developing and strengthening these ties.

The Tunisian minister and the U.S. advisor discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in priority areas, including boosting trade and encouraging American investment in Tunisia. Ammar highlighted the promising opportunities the Tunisian market offers to U.S. investors.

Boulos affirmed the U.S. side’s keenness on fostering consultation and cooperation with Tunisia to bring the two nations—and their public and private institutions—closer together.

Regional and Humanitarian Concerns

The two sides also discussed regional and international developments, particularly the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Ammar stressed the urgent need to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian and medical aid.

Additionally, they underscored the importance of finding a Libyan-led political solution under UN auspices to ensure Libya’s security, stability, and territorial unity.