AGP Executive Report

World Cup & Tunisia: Tunisia’s World Cup build-up is in the spotlight after coach Sabri Lamouchi apologized to fans following a humiliating 5-0 friendly defeat to Belgium, calling the performance “a nightmare” and saying he felt “ashamed.” Sports & Travel Politics: A BBC report says Trump-era travel bans and tighter visa rules are angering fans and complicating attendance, with Iran’s team forced to deal with visa denials and last-minute travel hurdles. Tunisia Football Focus (Group F): With Tunisia drawn alongside the Netherlands, Japan and Sweden, the tournament schedule is now set, and Tunisia’s opener is listed for June 21 against Japan. Local Business/Industry: In a separate regional move, XPENG says it has launched operations in Tunisia and Morocco, opening a 2,500-square-meter sales and service center in Tunisia as part of its North Africa expansion. Governance Watch: Tunisia’s parliament committee is continuing its review of a draft law on the status of religious officials, starting a session at 9:30 a.m.

Libya Diplomacy: Tunisia’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Nafti met UN envoy Hanna Tetteh in Tunis to discuss progress on Libya’s political roadmap, stressing UN-led efforts, “structured dialogue,” and coordination with regional partners. UN Briefings: Tetteh also briefed foreign ambassadors in Tunis, including the AU and major embassies, on implementing the roadmap. World Cup Focus (Tunisia): Tunisia’s warm-up campaign took a hit as Belgium thrashed the Carthage Eagles 5-0, while Tunisia is set to face the Netherlands in Group F at the 2026 World Cup. Sports Access: The International Sports Press Association says many Iranian and African journalists were denied US visas to cover the tournament, warning this undermines press freedom. Governance Update: Parliament’s administrative committee has taken up a draft framework law to modernise public administration management systems, including digitalisation and transparency mechanisms. Local Sports: Tyler Smith finished ninth in the Africa Triathlon Cup in Yasmine Hammamet, pleased with a strong hot-weather performance.

World Cup Warm-up Shock: Belgium thrashed Tunisia 5-0 in Brussels as Leandro Trossard scored before halftime and Charles De Ketelaere, Kevin De Bruyne, Dodi Lukebakio and Nicolas Raskin added after the break; Tunisia were reduced to 10 men after Ismael Gharbi’s second yellow. Tunisia Football Focus: The heavy defeat follows Tunisia’s earlier 1-0 loss to Austria, leaving coach Sabri Lamouchi under pressure ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Migration & Rights in Tunis: Protesters gathered outside UNHCR in Lac demanding the deportation of undocumented sub-Saharan migrants and calling for UNHCR to leave Tunisia, amid heightened security. Press Freedom & Detentions: Separate demonstrations in Tunisia also called for press freedom and the release of political prisoners. Tunisia in the World Cup Orbit: FIFA says it will collect match items to document the 2026 tournament’s history, while Tunisia’s World Cup preparations continue under a spotlight.

World Cup Warm-up Shock: Belgium crushed Tunisia 5-0 in Brussels in the final tune-up before the 2026 World Cup, with Leandro Trossard, Charles De Ketelaere, Kevin De Bruyne, Dodi Lukebakio and Nicolas Raskin scoring as Tunisia played with 10 men after Ismael Gharbi’s second yellow. Tunisia Under Pressure: Coach Sabri Lamouchi called the performance “a complete disaster,” with Tunisia winless in their last three matches and set to open Group F on June 15 against Sweden. Belgium’s World Cup Message: The result extended Belgium’s strong run ahead of Group G matches versus Egypt, Iran and New Zealand, with Romelu Lukaku featuring off the bench and Jeremy Doku impressing on the left. Group F Stakes: Tunisia’s group rivals are Sweden, Japan and the Netherlands—an unforgiving mix where Tunisia will need a quick turnaround from this heavy defeat. Local Sports Note: Karim Helali was re-elected head of the Tunisian Handball Federation for 2026-2030.

Tunisia’s Economy & Payments: Tunisia’s Central Bank data show refinancing down 18% to TND 10.9bn (June 4), while interbank transfers jumped 31.7% to nearly 4bn; meanwhile tele-compensation stayed steady at 53.4bn dinars (+0.6%) across 14.7m transactions (+2.8%), but cheques kept collapsing (-24.9% in volume, -28% in value) as bank transfers surged and direct debits rose with sharply higher rejection rates. Digital Connectivity: ViaTunisia’s Marseille–Bizerte subsea cable segment has reached Ready for Service, moving from construction to full operations on a new Europe–North Africa route backed by EU funding. Aviation & Business: Nouvelair Tunisia reported 2024 revenue of 783.8m dinars (+32.9%), with stronger operating profitability and a transformed balance sheet. Diplomacy & Security: Tunisia’s FM received Mexico’s ambassador credentials and met UNSMIL’s head on Libya’s political process; Tunisia also extended a military air transport unit deployment to support MINUSCA for another year. Health & Services: A first surgical procedure was performed at Al-Tadamon hospital as Tunisia expands local cardiovascular services. World Cup Link: Tunisia is set to face Belgium in a pre-World Cup friendly in Brussels (June 6), while Tunisia’s football ecosystem continues to connect regionally as Esperance-linked midfielder Onuche Ogbelu completes a move to Libya’s Al-Ittihad.

Tunisia–US Defense: Tunisia received 48 US-made Humvees at El Aouina Air Base to boost border security and help fight terrorism, smuggling and organised crime, with the delivery framed as part of deeper Tunis–Washington defence cooperation. World Cup Focus (Tunisia in Group F): With the 2026 World Cup about to start, Tunisia’s Group F rivals are being mapped in detail—Netherlands, Japan and Sweden—while coverage highlights Tunisia’s chances and the pressure on teams facing the Tunisian side. ViaTunisia Connectivity: The ViaTunisia subsea cable segment between Marseille and Bizerte reached ready-for-service status, aiming to strengthen high-capacity, secure digital links between Europe and North Africa. Tunisia Economy (Central Bank): Tunisia’s central bank kept the key interest rate at 7%, citing inflation risks and a “prudent” monetary stance. Sports & Culture: A Tunis-based Greek choir project continues to draw attention, using choral music to build cultural ties between Greece and Tunisia.

Tunisia Court Ruling: Opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi was sentenced to life in prison in a terrorism case, with additional decades added and other senior Ennahdha figures also receiving long terms, deepening Tunisia’s crackdown on dissent. Economy Watch: Tunisia’s central bank kept the key interest rate unchanged at 7%, citing inflation risks and a “prudent” monetary stance, while the current account deficit narrowed to about 1.5% of GDP by end-April 2026 thanks to services and remittances. Tech & Business: The Tunisia Africa Business Council launched ST2A, a pan-African alliance aimed at boosting technological sovereignty and digital transformation using Tunisian ICT, AI, cybersecurity and connectivity expertise. World Cup (Tunisia angle): Tunisia’s World Cup campaign is framed around coach Sabri Lamouchi’s focus on a strong defence as the team targets a first-ever knockout-stage run in Group F against Japan, Sweden and the Netherlands. Regional Governance: Tunisia hosted the 4+4 Small Dialogue Committee talks on electoral laws, with a UN envoy facilitating discussions on an agreed framework and timeline.

World Cup 2026, Group F Focus: Tunisia’s World Cup opener vs Japan is set for June 20 in Monterrey, with the Netherlands and Sweden also in the group—while Sweden’s pre-tournament tune-up ended 2-2 against Greece after a late Masouras equaliser, adding extra pressure on Graham Potter’s side. Training & Matchday Logistics: Japan switched Monterrey training venues after players found an uneven, patchy pitch at the original site, moving from UANL Tigres’ facility to Rayados’ El Barrial. FIFA Stadium Rules: FIFA updated its Stadium Code of Conduct, banning reusable water bottles at World Cup venues (empty refillable bottles still allowed at some fan events). Tunisia Travel Safety: UK Foreign Office guidance says Tunisia’s tourist areas are generally safe, but advises against travel to parts of southern and western Tunisia, including near the Tunisia-Libya border. Tunisia Politics: Former Tunisian intelligence chief Kamel Guizani alleges President Kais Saied’s circle spied on opponents and helped fabricate cases to imprison them.

Tunisia-Centered Diplomacy: Tunisia and Bulgaria held the third round of political consultations in Tunis, with both sides stressing strong ties and preparing for upcoming bilateral engagements tied to the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Central Bank Watch: Tunisia’s Central Bank kept its key interest rate at 7%, citing rising external inflation pressures and high uncertainty. Trade & Borders: Libya and Tunisia began implementing their free trade agreement, including electronic certificates of origin and renewed joint customs crossing procedures, with steps to curb smuggling and ease truck movement. Regional Health Policy: A Maghreb forum in Tunis called for a unified strategy to fight smoking, pushing shared prevention and awareness efforts across Tunisia, Libya and Algeria. World Cup Focus (Tunisia in Group F): With the 2026 World Cup starting June 11, Tunisia is set to open Group F against Sweden (June 14), with the Netherlands and Japan also in the group; heat-risk concerns are flagged for multiple matches across host cities. Culture & Film: Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania’s Oscar-nominated docudrama “The Voice of Hind Rajab” received a censor certificate in India and is set for a June 19 release.

Court Verdict in Tunisia: Opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi and Ennahda figures were sentenced to life imprisonment in a terrorism-related case, with Ghannouchi receiving life plus 30 years and his deputy Ali Larayedh getting 42 years, as convictions also include “secret apparatus” allegations and follow detention since April 2023. World Cup Build-Up (Tunisia): Tunisia’s World Cup campaign is set in Group F with the Netherlands, Japan and Sweden, while coach Sabri Lamouchi’s squad is highlighted as Tunisia look to finally break their group-stage curse. Regional Sports Spotlight: Algeria face the Netherlands in a key friendly in Rotterdam ahead of their World Cup opener against Argentina, with both sides using the match to fine-tune squads. Gulf Expansion (Business): Morocco’s Akdital plans a third Saudi hospital after land acquisition in Riyadh, aiming for 1,000 beds in Saudi Arabia by 2030 and exploring a potential Tunisia hospital acquisition. Migration Rights: “Refugees in Libya” condemned dehumanizing rhetoric and calls for accountability over alleged abuse and threatened evictions affecting migrants and asylum seekers across Libya, including impacts on Tunisia-linked routes.

World Cup Build-Up: Tunisia’s final World Cup preparations took a hit as the Carthage Eagles lost 1-0 to Austria in a friendly in Vienna, with Austria reduced to 10 men after Konrad Laimer’s red card but still winning thanks to Marcel Sabitzer’s 63rd-minute goal; Tunisia had chances, including a Hannibal Mejbri free-kick off the crossbar. Belgium Boost: Romelu Lukaku returned to form for Belgium, scoring in a 2-0 friendly win over Croatia as coach Rudi Garcia urged caution and step-by-step management after the striker’s long injury layoff. Tunisia in Court: A Tunisian court sentenced Ennahdha leader Rached Ghannouchi to life in prison plus 30 years on terrorism-related charges in the “secret apparatus” case, alongside other long terms for senior figures. Film Clearance: Tunisian-French film “The Voice of Hind Rajab” has been cleared by India’s CBFC without cuts and is set to release in Indian theatres on June 19. Food Safety: Tunisia’s food poisoning probe in Meknassi (Sidi Bouzid) points to anabasine poisoning, likely from accidental use of leaves from the toxic wild plant “Nicotiana glauca” mixed into leafy vegetables. Migration Policy: The EU approved a provisional plan to deport and confine undocumented migrants in offshore detention centers in third countries, including Tunisia, under stricter cooperation rules.

Baccalaureate Countdown: Tunisia’s 2026 Baccalaureate main session starts Wednesday, with 162,435 candidates registered and 5,988 exam centers mobilized nationwide; results are expected on June 23, while the Ministry says logistical preparations are complete. Food Safety: Tunisia’s National Food Safety Authority says the Meknassi food poisoning in Sidi Bouzid was linked to “anabasine” found in osbane, likely from accidental leaves of the toxic wild plant “Nicotiana glauca” mixed with leafy vegetables. Public Health in Bizerte: Thermal fogging campaigns are set to begin in Menzel Bourguiba, Tinja and Mateur to curb “Chironomidae” insect spread, with officials stressing the treatment is not harmful to residents. Justice Update: The Tunis Court of First Instance issued heavy sentences in the “secret apparatus” terrorism case, including life terms for Rached Ghannouchi and Ali Larayedh. World Cup Focus: FIFA confirmed full squads for all 48 teams (1,248 players total); Tunisia is among the African qualifiers, while Belgium’s warm-up win over Croatia featured Lukaku’s return and a Tunisia match-up ahead of the tournament.

Tunisia at the World Cup spotlight: Tunisia’s warm-up ended in a 1-0 loss to 10-man Austria, with Marcel Sabitzer scoring after Konrad Laimer’s early red card; Tunisia hit the woodwork three times, and now face Belgium in their final friendly before starting Group F against Sweden on June 14. Squad and fitness watch: Austria coach Rangnick said captain David Alaba and forward Christoph Baumgartner have injury concerns after the match, while Tunisia’s World Cup group also includes the Netherlands and Japan. Tunisia in the global business lane: Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti took part in a Korea-Africa business push in Seoul, as South Korea seeks deeper economic ties with Africa and urges Korean firms to expand across the continent. Trade and agriculture: Tunisia’s olive oil exports jumped sharply, with exports up about 50% in the first six months, driven by higher volumes. World Cup build-up: FIFA confirmed the 48-team tournament runs June 11 to July 19, with squads rolling in as teams finalize preparations.

World Cup Countdown: FIFA says the 2026 tournament starts June 11 with 104 matches across the US, Canada and Mexico, and Tunisia are set for Group F alongside Netherlands, Japan and Sweden. Tunisia Football: Austria edged Tunisia 1-0 in a World Cup warm-up in Vienna, despite Tunisia hitting the woodwork three times; Tunisia’s next friendly is against Belgium before heading to Monterrey. Squads & Fitness: Netherlands striker Memphis Depay insisted he never doubted he’d be fit for the World Cup after a thigh injury, while final 26-man rosters are due today. Judicial Independence: Women Journalists Without Chains condemned Tunisia’s “systematic” crackdown on judges and independent legal voices, citing arrests, prosecutions and prison sentences. Road Safety: Aid al-Adha’s first three days saw 24 road accidents in Tunisia with 17 dead and 38 injured, with inattention and speeding flagged as top causes. Environment: Lake Ichkeul’s greater flamingos nested for the first time, linked to major shifts in the lake’s freshwater-to-salinity balance. Public Services: ONAS in Ariana announced urgent repairs to a treated wastewater pipeline in El Hessiane, with temporary pumping disruptions expected. Economy & Taxes: Tunisia’s June tax calendar lists key deadlines from June 15 to June 30, including monthly returns and wealth tax filing.

Tunisia World Cup Focus: Tunisia’s World Cup campaign is set for Group F with Sweden, Japan and the Netherlands, after another strong qualifying run where the team conceded no goals; attention now turns to Sabri Lamouchi’s task of finding the cutting edge to survive the expanded 48-team format. Parliament & Finance: Tunisia’s Finance and Budget Committee will hear CONECT on the draft Exchange Code law (115/2025), a move that could reshape exchange rules and affect investment, exports and business operations. Telecom & Economy: Tunisia’s telecom sector crossed the TND 1 billion mark in Q1 2026, reaching TND 1.03 billion, driven by fixed-line growth and 5G rollout. Agriculture Exports: Tunisian fruit exports are widening fast, with $15.57m earned since the start of 2026 and blueberries gaining traction in India. Business Diplomacy: Tunisian FM Mohamed Ali Nafti told South Korea to invest in Africa via Tunisia as a “strategic gateway,” citing supply-chain disruption risks. Aviation: flyadeal marked International Cabin Crew Day by graduating 25 new cabin crew from Saudi Arabia and Tunisia, boosting its workforce to 700+.

Gaza Solidarity in Tunis: Hundreds marched through central Tunis on Sunday, waving Palestinian flags and chanting against Israel’s Gaza blockade, with protesters denouncing Arab “silence” and calling normalization “treason.” Diplomacy: Tunisia’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti is in Seoul for the second Africa–South Korea foreign ministers meeting, aiming to boost economic, trade, scientific and technological cooperation. World Cup Focus (Tunisia in Group F): Japan beat Iceland 1-0 in their final warm-up in Tokyo, setting up Group F clashes with the Netherlands, Sweden and Tunisia; Japan will miss Kaoru Mitoma, while Takehiro Tomiyasu and Wataru Endo returned from injury. Tunisia Weather: The National Institute of Meteorology forecasts partly cloudy conditions, with thunderstorms and rain possible in the east, and temperatures ranging from 27–31°C on the coast and 32–36°C inland. Eid Al-Adha Aid: Qatar Charity said it delivered Qurbani meat to 900,000 people across 43 countries, including support for vulnerable families in Palestine (Gaza) and other crisis-hit states.