Cooperation between Tunisia and Algeria in Border Areas: A Strategic Lever for Economic Growth and Security
According to Walid Kasraoui, an economist and international economic relations advisor, cooperation between Tunisia and Algeria in border areas could become a strategic lever for economic growth and security.
Key Points
- Kasraoui emphasized that border regions, which have long been marginalized, suffer from poor infrastructure and a lack of services, limiting their contribution to national development.
- He noted that price disparities between the two countries fuel phenomena such as smuggling and monopolies, which are major obstacles to economic integration.
- Kasraoui recalled that Tunisia and Algeria recently signed a bilateral protocol comprising over 25 points in several sectors, and that the effective implementation of this protocol could lead to the emergence of a multifaceted economic hub and strengthen commercial and industrial dynamics between the two countries.
Concrete Solutions to Strengthen Cooperation
Kasraoui believes that the key to success lies in the implementation of existing agreements and the establishment of practical solutions. He proposes:
- Creating a joint free zone to facilitate the exchange of non-subsidized products
- Simplifying customs procedures
- Reducing waiting times at border posts These measures would stimulate bilateral trade while reducing the negative effects of smuggling and monopolies.
Leveraging Algeria's Willingness to Promote Economic Cooperation
Kasraoui stresses the need to take advantage of Algeria's willingness to promote economic cooperation, while acknowledging the challenges related to the differences in resources between the two countries. He insists on a concrete and progressive deployment of initiatives to ensure tangible results for local populations.
A Bilateral Priority
Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb recently reiterated that the development of border areas is a bilateral priority, emphasizing the importance of strengthening coordination between Tunisia and Algeria to accelerate the implementation of projects and improve the quality of life for inhabitants of these regions, contributing to a true integrative partnership between the two countries.
