A Special Advertising Section on Tunisia

Tunisians talk about Tunisia
A focus on family, friends and social and economic progress

Washington Times representatives were in Tunisia for five weeks, where they were met with smiles and hospitality.

Many Tunisians offered candid comments about their lives and families, and talked optimistically about social and economic progress. We thought we would let some of their comments speak for themselves.

Khemays Dababi, 59, driver for the Tunisian government: "Tunisia is a calm country. We work hard here and want our society to continue to advance. We have an excellent climate with a lot of sunshine and it's basically a good country to live in."

Omar Bellous, 17, high school student at Rue de Marseilles, Tunis : "I'm like most young Tunisians. I like to play soccer and watch soccer matches whenever I can. I also hang out with my friends in my free time.

"In some ways, we are closer to Europeans in the way we dress and our habits than with other Arabs. Kids my age generally have good relationships with both their parents and teachers."

We usually live with our parents until we get married, and we don't have problems with drugs and guns in schools like they do in the U.S."

Mahammed Bellous, 42, electrical systems manager, Tunis : "We have a beautiful country that is politically stable. We can travel freely here without fear of crime.

Tunisian families are very close, and our society is one where you can not live alone because family and friends always surround you. I work six days a week, and Sunday I look forward to spending time with my family."

Souad Chelbi, 40, executive assistant, Tunis - "What I like in my country is the freedom of women, especially in comparison to other Arab countries. Tunisian women work hard both inside and outside of the home. We are very family oriented and it is important to give the necessary guidance and nurturing to raise our children."

Monia Mourou, 35, head housekeeper, Tunis : "Tunisia is a remarkably beautiful country with beaches, mountains, desert and a lot of sunshine. This explains why the number of tourists continues to increase each year. We are well known for our smiles and warm hospitality. For me, Tunisia, is paradise on earth."

Moez Ben Mahmoud, 27: Press Attache, Ministry of Communications - "Tunisia has already made considerable progress towards modernization and an openness towards different cultures.

Tunisia is well placed geographically, socially and economically to play an important role in the region's future.

In ten years, Tunisians have witnessed real changes in every aspect of development. Despite our limited natural resources, our human resource is our greatest wealth. When I think of Tunisia, I think of tomorrow."