Tunisian expatriates celebrated their country’s 58th national day at their consulate in Jeddah on Thursday.

Fathi Neffati, the Tunisian consul general, Nabil Bukhari from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Makkah region, officials from the Saudi ministry, and other diplomats, attended the event.

Neffati said this day was important because it marked his country’s independence after more than 70 years of colonial rule.

He said 2014 was of particular significance because the country had approved a new constitution on Jan. 26, and elected a national constituent assembly.

“We believe this new constitution will bring change with more development and progress for the country and people of Tunisia.”

He hoped the document would unify the country and see elections take place for a new government that would work for the benefit of its people.

He said Tunisia has strong ties with the Kingdom, which is based on mutual trust, and a commitment to build Arab and Islamic unity.

He said the recent visit of Tunisian Prime Minister Mahdi Juma to Riyadh was an example of this close relationship.

He thanked Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and the rest of the Saudi leadership for supporting Tunisia and its people.