Tunisian PM unveils post-coronavirus economic recovery plan

TUNIS

Tunisian Prime Minister Elyes Fakhfakh announced on Wednesday a programme to revive his country's economy "after its success in overcoming the coronavirus pandemic".

The programme is based on strengthening national sovereignty and security, preserving the economic fabric, working to revitalise the most affected sectors and fighting against corruption and impunity.

"This programme will be presented to the parliament at the end of next month," said Fakhfakh, stressing that the government will work hard to mobilise the country's own resources to boost the economy.

"Our country has succeeded in confronting the Covid-19 pandemic," said Fakhfakh in a speech broadcast on the state television Wataniya.

PRESERVE GAINS

The prime minister called on all Tunisians to preserve the gains attained during the first phase of partial lifting of lockdown and to respect all measures taken by the government to combat Covid-19.

On May 4, Tunisia started the first stage of the national strategy for partial lifting of lockdown which includes three stages, from May 4 to 24, from May 24 to June 4 and from June 4 to 14.

On Tuesday, one new Covid-19 case and one more death were reported in Tunisia, bringing the total number of cases to 1,044 with 47 deaths.

The number of recoveries rose to 826, according to the Ministry of Health.