World Bank Group will give $1.2bn of aid to Tunisia. It will be used for government reform, creating jobs, promoting trade, and improving infrastructure in the country.

The World Bank says it will commit $750m in support of government reform and a democratic transition following the adoption of a new constitution on 27 January. It is a significant increase on the $300m of funding that was provided last year for the decentralisation of Tunisia’s local governments.

A further $100m will be used to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs). A further $50m will be used to promote exports and $20m will be given to the National Water Authority for building a water pumping station in Tunis.

Previous World Bank involvement in Tunisia includes a $500m loan for political and economic reforms in November 2012, and a $55m loan to fund energy efficiency and renewable investment projects in 2009.