The first Partnership between Europe and Arab countries under the auspices of the World Federation of Associations and Clubs for UNESCO (FMACU)
Tunisia – Romania 2025–2026
1. Context general
During November 19–26 2025, the city of Gafsa (Tunisia) hosted the first stage of the Cultural Partnership, educational and touristic Tunisia–Romania, organized under the joint auspices of the two regional branches of FMACU – the European Branch and the Arab Countries Branch.
This cooperation framework reaffirmed the importance of intercultural dialogue, of mutual understanding and active collaboration between FMACU member organizations, contributing to the consolidation of a dynamic space of cultural exchanges, educational and touristic between the two regions.
The partnership was built around three FMACU member organizations, each birthday 25 of years of activity in 2025:
* Club for UNESCO in Gafsa (Tunisia)
* Club for UNESCO Alumnus (Romania)
* Cygnus Scientific Society for UNESCO (Romania)
2. Activities organized at Gafsa
During the visit of the Romanian delegation, The UNESCO Club of Gafsa has implemented a complex and diverse program, meant to strengthen the Tunisian-Romanian partnership.
2.1. Academic cooperation
* Working meeting at the University of Gafsa.
* Discussion of the draft Memorandum of Understanding with "Ștefan cel Mare" University from Suceava (Romania).
2.2. Cultural activities, educational and touristic
* Exhibition of terroir products and traditional crafts from Gafsa
An event dedicated to the promotion of local heritage, craftsmanship and cultural identity of the region.
* Guided visit to Medina and Gafsa Oasis
With direct meetings with artisans and demonstrations of traditional techniques.
* Excursion to the Berber villages and the town of El Guettar
A program focused on discovering the tangible and intangible heritage of the area.
* Inauguration of the Tunisian-Romanian Friendship Garden in Elksar
A lasting symbol of cooperation and shared values in the UNESCO network.
* Program de wellness la Termele Capsa
Highlighting the touristic and therapeutic potential of the region.
* The 3rd edition of the Gafsa Film Days
An event that uses cinema as a tool for intercultural dialogue, with the participation of Romanian guests.
* Cultural evening dedicated to international guests
A moment of artistic expression, cultural exchange and celebration of diversity.
* Day of the Romanians in the Ksar-Gafsa Oasis
Presentation of traditions, gastronomy, music and Romanian heritage in an authentic setting.
* Excursion to the Great South, with accommodation in the desert
A unique experience that highlights the natural landscapes and the Romanian heritage.
3. Diplomatic support
The Romanian delegation had the honor to benefit, for two days, by the presence of His Excellency Mr. Valentin Ciprian Muntean, The Ambassador of Romania in Tunisia.
He gave his support to the program:
* institutional visibility,
* credibility in partner environments,
* cohesion and continuity in diplomatic and cultural actions.
His Excellency's active involvement strengthened the promotion of the partnership and provided an essential link between Romanian and Tunisian institutions, with significant impact on cultural relations, educational and tourism between the two countries.
4. A framework for sustainable cooperation
This first phase of the partnership represents the beginning of a bi-regional cooperation model – Europe and the Arab countries – under the auspices of FMACU.
The continuation will take place in Bucovina, Romania, during April 1–8 2026, on occasion:
* of the second stage of the Partnership,
* and of the 18th edition of the Program “YOUth and MUSEums” one of UNESCO's longest-running civil society initiatives in the region.
