Tunisia celebrates National Diplomacy Day on Saturday, marking the 70th anniversary of the creation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, established by beylical decree on May 3, 1956. This founding date recalls the early desire of the independent Tunisian state to establish a structured diplomatic instrument capable of voicing its concerns in a world then dominated by the logic of the Cold War and decolonization dynamics.
The first to hold this position was Habib Bourguiba, from April 15, 1956, to July 29, 1957, before passing the role to Sadok Mokaddem. This initial overlap illustrates the strategic importance given to diplomacy in the early years of independence.
Since then, Tunisian diplomacy has evolved through generations of political leaders and diplomats who have helped shape the country’s image to varying degrees. While some leaders of the department have been prominent, others have faded into obscurity over time.
Among the influential figures, Mongi Slim remains a trailblazer. He epitomized the beginnings of ambitious diplomacy by becoming the first African to preside over the United Nations General Assembly in 1961, after representing Tunisia at the Security Council (1959-1960). His career has firmly placed Tunisia in influential circles of multilateral diplomacy.
His successor, Habib Bourguiba Jr (1964-1970), furthered this direction by developing a diplomacy of balance, while Mohamed Masmoudi (1970-1974) strengthened Tunisia’s regional and Arab engagement. Habib Chatti (1980-1984) and Béji Caïd Essebsi (1981-1986) each contributed in their own way to adapting Tunisian diplomacy to regional changes.
The record for longevity is held by Habib Ben Yahia, who served in the position twice (February 1991 – January 1997 and November 1999 – November 2004), ensuring continuity and stability in foreign policy. On the other hand, the shortest tenure belongs to Ahmed Ounaies, from January 27, 2011, to February 21, 2011, in a particularly sensitive political transition context.
In total, Tunisia has seen 34 Foreign Ministers (excluding Habib Bourguiba), with 13 since January 14, 2011, until May 3, 2026, distributed over six presidencies. Notable leaders under each presidency are listed in the original article.
Beyond the ministers, Tunisia has also been represented by its nationals at the helm of regional and international organizations. This includes leadership roles in the League of Arab States, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa. Tunisians have also led in cultural and audiovisual sectors.
These trajectories highlight a consistent reality: Tunisian diplomacy extends beyond its ministers to a network of competencies that have made their mark in demanding multilateral environments, contributing to the influence of a country whose impact often exceeds its geographic or economic weight.
Like any institution, Tunisian diplomacy has experienced periods of prominence and quieter moments. However, the essential remains: a deeply-rooted, respected diplomatic tradition that is now more than ever called upon to renew itself in the face of the challenges of a changing world.
Brahim OUESLATI
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