Ambassador Bazzi Seeks $1 Yield for Every Dollar Spent in Tunisia

Bill Bazzi, the U.S. ambassador to Tunisia, arrived in Wyoming in November to review existing academic ties and explore new commercial opportunities. He spent time at the University of Wyoming to discuss how the state and the North African country can expand their collaboration beyond research into business ventures.

Tunisia shares several industrial similarities with Wyoming, including strong sectors in oil, mining, agriculture, and tourism. Bazzi noted that Tunisia is currently heavily involved in phosphate mining. He stated that the alignment of these industries provides a solid foundation for a partnership that benefits both economies.

Formal relations between the University of Wyoming and at least four Tunisian universities began in 2024. These agreements focus on research and language programs. Bazzi visited a partner institution in Sfax, located in southern Tunisia, where faculty members expressed enthusiasm for the exchange. He said the visits leave a strong impression of engagement.

The initial partnership aimed to address water scarcity, sustainability, land use, conservation, and tourism. Bazzi acknowledged that Tunisia faced its worst drought in the previous year, resulting in energy cuts and water shortages. He said the U.S. Embassy wants to deepen these academic efforts to tackle these specific environmental challenges.

Bazzi described the relationship as a threefold partnership involving the governor’s office, the National Guard, and the university. He plans to coordinate with faculty to identify technologies that can be commercialized in Tunisia. He mentioned ideas such as 3D printing for firefighting, forest fire management, and medical prosthetics, noting that these projects often lack the seed funding required to reach the market.

The ambassador emphasized that the current administration wants to ensure every dollar spent by the United States yields a good investment for American taxpayers. He said the embassy is actively working to attract more U.S. businesses to Tunisia. Bazzi also highlighted the importance of security stability in the Mediterranean region for global shipping lanes.

Tunisian students studying at the University of Wyoming have shared their experiences upon returning home. Bazzi said these students are amazed by what they learn in Laramie and bring new perspectives back to Tunisia. He believes this two-way exchange allows both sides to apply new knowledge and ideas in their respective countries.