Obama to designate Tunisia as major non-NATO ally

[bemildred]

U.S. President Barack Obama said on Thursday that he plans to designate Tunisia as a major non-NATO ally of the United States, recognizing the country's democratic progress after the 2011 Arab Spring uprising.

After a meeting with Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi in the Oval Office, where the leaders discussed instability in neighboring Libya and the region, Obama said the United States will provide short-term aid so Tunisia can complete economic reforms.

"At this critical time in world history, we think it's very important for us to continue to expand the economic assistance that we're providing so that ordinary Tunisians can feel the concrete benefits of a change to a more open and competitive economy," Obama told reporters.

The White House said the U.S. would offer up to $500 million in loan guarantees to the north African nation if needed for economic reforms.

http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/05/21/us-usa-tunisia-obama-idUSKBN0O626M20150521

[jakeXT]

1. Africom here we come, should get interesting for China's ambitions /nt

[bemildred]

2. I have mixed feelings about us "helping".

I fear for Tunisia.

The Yurpeans and their little problem with boat people could come into play and really make a mess.

And yeah, the Pentagon loons, who knows what hairbrained scheme they will hatch?

[jakeXT]

3. Germany was part of the security council and could've said no

Italy could have followed their non aggression pact with Libya and denied the use of their bases.

But Berlusconi had his own problems and Merkel ...


https://m.

[bemildred]

4. Don't get me started. nt