NUSACC, the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce announced today that Her Excellency Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, Tunisia’s Ambassador to the United States , has been selected as the 2024 Ambassador of the Year . This award, which began in 2004 is given annually to an ambassador from the Arab diplomatic corps in the United States for outstanding contributions to U.S.-Arab relations .

The exclusive award ceremony will be held at Washington DC’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel this December . Click here to see the Ambassador’s biography “Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi has helped to bring a measure of stability and predictability to the Tunisia-U.S. partnership during a time of great change across the MENA region ,“ stated David Hamod, Chief Executive Officer of NUSACC . “As the birthplace of the 2010 Arab Spring , has encountered significant obstacles in its journey toward democracy .

Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi has worked tirelessly to explain these challenges and opportunities to U.S. policymakers both in Washington DC and beyond , helping to sustain a balanced partnership between Tunisia and the U.S..” In response,

Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi remarked, “Being recognized as the Ambassador of the Year for 2024 by this prestigious organization. Such recognition highlights the strong ties between Tunisia and the United States.” She further stated , “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire NUSACC team for their unwavering support in fostering strong relationships between the USA and the Arab world , with particular emphasis on the Republic of Tunisia.

Together, we will continue to strengthen the bonds between our nations and strive for a brighter and more prosperous future for all.” Her Excellency Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, Tunisia’s first female Ambassador to the United States, has set a remarkable example. This marks the second consecutive year , the award has gone to a female ambassador from North Africa . Last year’s recipient was H.H. Lalla Joumala Alaoui , Morocco’s former Ambassador to the U.S..

Strengthening Tunisia-U.S. Relations Throughout her tenure, Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi has focused on enhancing political, commercial, and cultural ties between both nations. Examples of her recent efforts include:

> Celebrating the establishment of the Congressional Tunisia Caucus, co-chaired by U.S. Representatives David Schweikert (R-AZ) and Betty McCollum (D-MN) .

> Being honored with click here the Kindness Award by the Washington Educational and Cultural Attaché Association (WECAA) in recognition of her dedication to intercultural cooperation.

> 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, bringing together American and Tunisian businesses .

> Organizing a bipartisan olive oil tasting, showcasing Tunisia’s premium olive oil market. Historical Milestones in Tunisia-U.S. Relations Spanning over two centuries, Tunisia-U.S. relations include many highlights, 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 Habib Bourguiba’s 1961 U.S. visit, emphasizing education over arms . This year’s accolade underscores the enduring importance of the Tunisia-U.S. relationship.