Tunisian Premier holds talks with EU MPs

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) Tunisia's Prime Minister Habib Essid met the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Human Rights and Security and Defence subcommittees of the European Parliament here Thursday to discuss the latest developments in his country.

According to an EP stateemnt, security challenges, fighting terrorism and tackling migration flows were the key issues raised in the debate.

"Tunisia's transition to democracy has been difficult, taking over three years to complete, said Essid, adding that its major political challenge now was to put its newly-approved constitution into practice.

"Development cannot happen without security", he said, stressing that Tunisia's new counter-terrorism strategy is a top priority. He also described its new 5-year strategy to boost the economy, including regional projects and development programmes.

On migration flows, Essid stressed that prevention is always needed and the only way to achieve it is by finding sustainable solutions locally in order to integrate people in their own country, so as to prevent them from fleeing.

All MEPs welcomed Tunisia's progress, acknowledging its difficulties with migration and terrorism, and saying that it should lead by example, added the statement.