NUSACC, the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce recently revealed that Her Excellency Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, Tunisia’s Ambassador to the United States , has been selected as the 2024 Ambassador of the Year . Initiated in 2004, this award is presented every year to an ambassador from the Arab diplomatic corps in the USA for outstanding contributions to U.S.-Arab relations .

The exclusive award ceremony will be held at Washington DC’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel this December . For more details, view the Ambassador’s biography. By fostering stability, Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi has 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 . “Tunisia, being the cradle of the 2010 Arab Spring, has encountered significant obstacles in its democratic development.

Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi has worked tirelessly to communicate Tunisia’s challenges and opportunities to American 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 NUSACC . Such recognition highlights the strong ties between our two nations and peoples .” She added, “My sincerest thanks go to the entire NUSACC team for their unwavering support in fostering strong relationships between the USA and the Arab world , with particular emphasis on Tunisia .

Together, we aim to deepen the bonds between our nations and work toward a brighter and more prosperous future for all.” Her Excellency Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, Tunisia’s first female Ambassador to the United States, has been a trailblazer . For the second year running, NUSACC has recognized a female ambassador from North Africa . The 2023 honoree was Her Highness Lalla Joumala Alaoui, Morocco’s former Ambassador to the U.S..

Building Bridges Between Tunisia and the USA Throughout her tenure, Ambassador Tajouri Bessassi has focused on enhancing multifaceted relations between Tunisia and the United States . Examples of her recent efforts include:

> The launch of the Congressional Tunisia Caucus, spearheaded by bipartisan leadership in Congress.

> 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), which promotes cultural understanding . W Partnering with NUSACC to host an economic roundtable , bringing together American and Tunisian businesses .

> Hosting an olive oil tasting at the U.S. Congress , NUSACC AOY 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 recognizing U.S. independence in 1796 .

> The 1805 Ramadan dinner hosted by President Jefferson for the Tunisian envoy.

> Tunisia’s groundbreaking abolition of slavery, predating the U.S..

> America’s prompt diplomatic recognition of independent Tunisia 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.