DEMARCHE DELIVERED: 2006 TIP REPORT - TUNISIA

C O N F I D E N T I A L TUNIS 001364

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

STATE FOR NEA/MAG - LAWRENCE AND G/TIP - PATEL

E.O. 12958: DECL: 06/04/2016
TAGS: PHUM KWMN ELAB SMIG ASEC KFRD KCRM TS
SUBJECT: DEMARCHE DELIVERED: 2006 TIP REPORT - TUNISIA

REF: A. STATE 88831


B. STATE 85720

Classified By: AMBASSADOR WILLIAM HUDSON FOR REASONS 1.4 (b) AND (d)


1. (C) On June 5, DCM, accompanied by Laboff, delivered Ref B
demarche on the 2006 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report to
MFA Director for the Americas Fadhel Ayari. Ayari stressed
that, to his knowledge and as various Ministries noted during
Laboff's TIP-related meetings, there was no trafficking in
persons taking place in Tunisia. Ayari said that, while the
GOT would need time to review the narrative, it seemed unjust
to include Tunisia in Tier 2, given the country's progressive
legislation on TIP and women's and children's issues. Being
listed, said Ayari, "is disappointing given our efforts,"
explaining that Tunisian measures to combat illegal migration
to Europe have been recognized by several European countries.



2. (C) Ayari said that the GOT may have further comments
after reviewing the narrative. However, he stressed that the
GOT looks forward "to coordinating our efforts and exchanging
information." He was also interested in the possibility of
working with the USG on anti-trafficking programs and will
suggest areas for possible cooperation in the coming year.
HUDSON