What are some interesting facts about Tunisia?
After gaining independence from France in 1956, President Habib Bourguiba established a strict one-party state. He dominated the country for 31 years, repressing Islamic fundamentalism and establishing rights for women that were unmatched by any other Arab nation. In recent years, Tunisia has taken a moderate, non-aligned stance in its foreign relations. Tunisia has a diverse economy, with important agricultural, mining, energy, tourism, and manufacturing sectors. Government control of economic affairs, while still heavy, has gradually lessened over the past decade. Progressive social policies also have helped raise living conditions in Tunisia. Just over 10 million people live in Tunisia. Life expectancy is around 75 years. The spoken language is Arabic, but the language of commerce is French.
