TEHRAN – Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in a commentary published in Tunisian media, highlighted the longstanding and close relationship between Iran and Tunisia, describing it as “based on brotherhood, mutual respect, deep religious and cultural commonalities, and shared international goals.”
Araghchi wrote that “Tunisia, the cradle of civilization and culture on the southern shore of the Mediterranean, holds a lofty and special place in Iran’s foreign policy.” 
He noted that the diplomatic relations between the two countries have endured for over six decades and “have always been imbued with a spirit of brotherhood, friendship and mutual understanding.”
Referring to recent developments, Araghchi praised the “historic visit” of Tunisian President Kais Saied to Iran in June 2024, which he described as “a turning point that opened a new chapter of comprehensive cooperation and confirmed the joint determination to strengthen bilateral ties.”
He further emphasized the solidarity between Tehran and Tunis in the face of Israel’s recent aggression.
“In the recent aggression of the Zionist regime against Iranian territory, the firm, principled and valuable support of the Tunisian government and people for the Islamic Republic of Iran demonstrated the depth of brotherly relations and unbreakable solidarity between the two nations.”
Araghchi added that Tunisia’s support “within the framework of shared principles of resistance against bullying and defending sovereignty and territorial integrity” is deeply appreciated by Iran.
On international issues, he stressed that Iran and Tunisia “have always been aligned and united in their firm opposition to foreign interference in the internal affairs of countries, support for the Palestinian cause, and resistance to the failed and wrongful attempts to normalize relations with the usurping Zionist regime.” 
These, he said, represent “proud common approaches of the two countries in responding to current developments.”
Acknowledging that despite positive political relations, “the vast economic capacities between the two countries have not yet been fully utilized,” Araghchi called for a “significant leap and renewed determination” to expand bilateral trade.
He outlined several steps underway
 or proposed to strengthen economic ties, including “enhancing tourism cooperation through mutual visa exemptions, establishing direct flights, holding new sessions of the joint economic commission, expanding trade exchanges across various sectors, and cooperation in technology.” 
He said Iran is ready “to cooperate with Tunisia by leveraging its experiences, technical knowledge and indigenous technologies.”
Araghchi also underscored the importance of cultural and artistic interactions, especially in cinema, music, handicraft exhibitions, and sports, as key to deepening mutual understanding and people-to-people ties, noting shared religious and cultural bonds as a strong foundation.
Highlighting successful Iranian cultural presence in Tunisia, he mentioned the popularity of the Iranian TV series “Prophet Joseph” and the film “King Solomon” at Tunisian festivals, reflecting a “notable cultural appreciation” in Tunisia of Iranian artistic capacities.
Araghchi also praised the boost in tourism following reciprocal visa exemption agreements, calling it “an exceptional opportunity to strengthen the brotherly bonds between the two peoples.”
He concluded his note by recalling the famous verses of Tunisian poet Abu al-Qasim al-Shabi:
“If the people one day truly desire life,
then fate must respond;
the night must inevitably clear away,
and the chains must inevitably be broken.”
Finally, he extended warm congratulations to the Tunisian national football team on their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and wished both Tunisia and Iran success in the upcoming global tournament.