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''Freedom Online Conference'' in Tunis.

During the meeting, Rinkevics raised the topic of concluding a number of bilateral agreements, which would be a good foundation for a further strengthening of Latvian-Tunisian relations. The ministers agreed to finalize talks so that the agreement between the governments of Latvia and Tunisia on the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income and on capital could be signed in the near future. The agreement will be instrumental for promoting trade relations with Tunisia as the potential for those contacts has not been fully exploited.

The ministers agreed to finish work on an agreement on cooperation in culture, education, science and sport. The agreement will be significant in view of the fact that Latvia currently sees an increasing interest in the Arab language and culture, and universities in Latvia are able to offer high quality programs to foreign students. The Latvian foreign minister also invited Tunisia to take part in events in Riga when the Latvian capital becomes the European Capital of Culture in 2014.

In order to further expand Latvian-Tunisian bilateral relations both in the political and economic sector, Rinkevics suggested that regular consultations be held between the foreign ministries of Latvia and Tunisia.

Both foreign ministers also talked about the challenges to Tunis during a transition period when democratic public administration reforms are being undertaken. Jerandi accentuated the importance of Tunisia’s partners in supporting a successful transition to democratic institutions. Rinkevics expressed Latvia’s readiness to share its experience of putting reforms into practice.

The ministers discussed the developments in the North African region in view of the Arab Spring events. The discussion also devoted attention to the strengthening of security situation in the region.