Tarek El-Nefir, President of the National Health University in Tunisia, announced that the second meeting of the joint Libyan-Tunisian committee was held, with four more meetings planned to address issues faced by Libyan patients seeking medical treatment in Tunisia.
El-Nefir, in a statement to the ‘Hakomitna’ platform, highlighted that the long waiting times at the border crossing were a primary topic of discussion. Proposals included establishing a digital system, special passages for patients and their companions, and expediting police and customs procedures.
The meeting also focused on organising the relationship between Tunisian healthcare providers, and the Libyan side responsible for paying treatment costs. This is to be framed within a contractual agreement, which governs all aspects of this relationship.
El-Nefir confirmed that the committee is working on drafting this agreement, discussing its clauses and amendments, for adoption by both parties.
The Tunisian official noted that the committee is exploring bilateral cooperation in investment, training and education, and exchange of medical expertise. He stated that the committee will hold weekly meetings to achieve its objectives.
In December, Ali Al-Abed, Libya’s Minister of Labor in the Government of National Unity (GNU), revealed an agreement concerning electronic linking with Tunisia. This was signed during a visit by a government delegation, and facilitates electronic control between the two Labour Ministries. This collaboration aims to monitor and manage professional data for those seeking employment in Libya, and oversee the activation of the social security agreement.
Al-Abed, in a statement to the Libya Al-Ahrar channel, emphasised the formation of a joint technical committee. This committee is set to activate the agreement, follow up on its implementation, and importantly, transfer and benefit from Tunisia’s expertise in employment and entrepreneurship.
He confirmed that a technical team from the ministry will visit Tunisia to meet with relevant departments. The visit aims to learn from Tunisia’s experience in activating trust funds, financing, and to sign agreements with Libyan banks to support small and medium-sized projects. This initiative addresses the concerns of youth entering the private sector, guiding them towards suitable specialisations and competitive opportunities, leveraging Tunisia’s extensive experience in this field.