Here is some brief information about Tunisia:
Government:
Tunisia is thought to be
the only fully democratic state in the Arab world
. It has association agreements with the European Union, the Arab League, the African Union, and many others. It has a
semi-presidential system of government
where an elected president serves alongside a prime minister and legislature.
Geography:
Tunisia contains the eastern end of the
Atlas Mountains
and the northern reaches of the
Sahara desert
. It has 810 miles of coastland along the
Mediterranean Sea
.
Religion:
The majority (98%) of Tunisia’s population is
Muslim
. The remaining 2% follow
Christianity and Judaism
.
Economy:
Tunisia’s diverse economy ranges from agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and petroleum products to tourism. Among Tunisia’s tourist attractions are its cosmopolitan capital city,
Tunis
, the ancient ruins of
Carthage
, the Muslim and Jewish quarters of
Jerba,
and the coastal resorts outside
Monastir
. Tunisia is known for its golden beaches and sunny weather.
Language:
Arabic
is the official language. Tunisian Arabic, known as
Tunsi
, is the national variety of Arabic and is widely used by the public. Just as in Morocco and Algeria,
French
plays a major role in Tunisian society.
We have traveled far once again this week and as we start our Lenten journey in the upcoming weeks, please remember to take time to
read the weekly devotions
. If you are able, consider
attending a mid-week Lenten service
.
Next week we will be in Libya. .
