The Arab Spring that swept North Africa and the Middle East was a moment of hope that the region was moving towards a freer, more democratic future.  Unfortunately, that hope has faded for most countries.  Tunisia, however, is an exception, as it remains in pursuit of the economic and democratic goals of its revolution.  Tunisia’s democracy is young, fragile, and still developing, and the economic reform process has been difficult, but there is hope that Tunisia can one day be a model for its neighbors of a free and prosperous nation.

The United States has been a strong partner with Tunisia throughout its attempt to realize the promise of the Arab Spring in a difficult region.  Tunisia is fighting ISIS and al-Qaeda terrorist groups, while neighboring Libya is facing profound instability and economic collapse.  A strategic and sustainable partnership between the United States and Tunisia is important to achieving a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Tunisia that remains a reliable and strong American ally in the midst of a tumultuous region.