Tunisia signs agreement with EU to fight human trafficking

Tunisian President Kais Saied has signed an agreement with the European Union aimed at combating human trafficking, local media reported.

Tunisia has become the main departure point for migrants trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe.

Announcing the deal in Tunis, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen promised increased cooperation on border management and search and rescue operations.

Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni said it was an important step towards creating a true partnership in tackling what she called “the migration crisis”.

Members of the European parliament have called for the deal to be conditional on respect for democracy and the rule of law in Tunisia.