By Houda Mzioudet.
Tunis, 5 April 2016:
Tunisia is the first country to announce it is reopening its diplomatic mission and consulate in . . .[restrict]Tripoli after closing it in 2014 following deteriorating security in Libya and the temporary seizure of ten of its diplomats.
Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said the decision follows the establishment of the Government of National Accord and the presidential council led by Prime Minister-designate Faye Serraj in Tripoli last week.
The reopening is prompted in part by Tunisia’s concern for its residents in Libya, of whom there are estimated to be between 50,000 and 110,000, mostly in the western part of the country.
The Tunisians are also anxious to resume formal commercial links with Libya.
The foreign ministry in Tunis stressed its support for Libya’s political process and the restoration of security.
A spokesman declined to say how many diplomats would be returning to Tripoli nor what security arrangements would be put in place, given the abductions of two years ago.
“We will provide more details about anything regarding security arrangements in due time,” the official told the Libya Herald, adding that the priority was ensuring the well-being of the Tunisian community in Libya. [/restrict]
