"On this memorable day, our country celebrates the 50th anniversary of its independence, a perennial and glorious national event we commemorate with much pride; a great historic day on which Tunisia freed itself from the yoke of colonization and recovered its sovereignty. It was indeed a great crowning for the struggle conducted by our valorous people for the sake of freedom, glory and dignity."

President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali

on the 50th anniversary of Independence;
March 20th 2006