NUSACC, the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce recently revealed that Her Excellency Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, Tunisia’s Ambassador to the United States , is being honored as the Ambassador of the Year for 2024. This award, which began in 2004 is given annually to an ambassador from the Arab diplomatic corps in the USA for outstanding contributions to U.S.-Arab relations .
The invitation-only ceremony will take place at Washington DC’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel this December . For more details, view the Ambassador’s biography. By fostering stability, Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi has contributed significantly to the Tunisia-U.S. relationship during a time of great change across the MENA region ,“ stated David Hamod, President & CEO of the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce. “As the birthplace of the 2010 Arab Spring , the nation has faced extraordinary challenges in its journey toward democracy .
Ambassador Tajouri NUSACC AOY Bessassi has worked tirelessly to explain these challenges and opportunities to U.S. policymakers within Washington DC and across the nation, thereby maintaining the Tunisia-U.S. relationship on an even keel .” Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi expressed her gratitude, stating , “Being recognized as the 2024 Ambassador of the Year by this prestigious organization. This honor reflects the enduring partnership between our two nations and peoples .” She added, “My sincerest thanks go to the entire NUSACC team for their steadfast dedication in building bridges between the USA and the Arab world , especially Tunisia .
Together, we will continue to strengthen the bonds between our nations and strive for a future filled with mutual prosperity for all.” As Tunisia’s inaugural female Ambassador to the U.S., Her Excellency Hanène Tajouri Bessassi has set a remarkable example. For the second year running, NUSACC has recognized a female ambassador from North Africa . Last year’s recipient was Her Highness Lalla Joumala Alaoui, Morocco’s former Ambassador to the U.S..
Building Bridges Between Tunisia and the USA Her Excellency Hanène Tajouri Bessassi has dedicated her tenure , Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi has focused on enhancing multifaceted relations between both nations. Recent accomplishments include:
> The launch of the Congressional Tunisia Caucus, co-chaired by U.S. Representatives David Schweikert (R-AZ) and Betty McCollum (D-MN) .
> Being honored with the Kindness Award by the Washington Educational and Cultural Attaché Association (WECAA) for fostering cultural dialogue .
> Playing a pivotal role in establishing the Group of Francophone Ambassadors (GAF), an initiative aimed at promoting francophone culture. W Co-hosting an economic summit with NUSACC, attended by high-level stakeholders in commerce and industry.
> Organizing a bipartisan olive oil tasting, showcasing Tunisia’s premium olive oil market. Historical Milestones in Tunisia-U.S. Relations The partnership between Tunisia and the USA dates back centuries , such as:
> Tunisia’s early acknowledgment of America’s independence.
> The 1805 meeting between President Thomas Jefferson and Tunisian Envoy Sidi Slimane Mellimli .
> Tunisia’s groundbreaking abolition of slavery, predating the U.S..
> The United States being the first major power to recognize Tunisia’s sovereignty in 1956 .
> President Bourguiba’s visionary focus on scholarships during his 1961 visit to America. This year’s accolade underscores the enduring value of Tunisia’s most precious resource: its people .