Lanka, Tunisia ties further strengthened

The Hony Consul General for Tunisia in Sri Lanka Mukthar Marikkar said he hoped the cordial relationship between Tunisia and Sri Lanka would further strengthen.

Marikkar in a message on the occasion of the National Day of Tunisia which falls today said: "Tunisia lies at the heart of the Mediterranean basin, and at the crossroads of the Arab, African and European Countries. From early days, the Tunisian society has been outward-looking, open to the sea and to diverse cultural influences.

"The official language is Arabic but French, English and Italian are commonly used.

"There is free access to the European Union Market, while nearly 3,000 foreign firms operate in Tunisia in various sectors.

"Tunisia is endeavouring to further consolidate its bilateral relations with all African countries and promoting its deep rooted relations with countries of the American and Asian Continent.

"Tunisia has already placed great value on education, more than 20 percent of the government operating budget is annually allocated for primary and secondary education."