ROME: Italy is intensifying efforts to foster greater cooperation with Tunisia in tackling the surge of illegal migration, as the strain on reception facilities reaches an unsustainable point, according to local mayors.
The first eight months of this year have witnessed a significant increase in the number of illegal migrants arriving in Italy, with figures reaching 114,000 — twice the number recorded during the same period in 2022.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni conducted a telephone conversation on Wednesday with Tunisian President Kais Saied, during which both leaders acknowledged the ongoing emergency impacting both countries. The discussions centered on enhancing joint efforts to combat the issue of illegal migration. Meloni reiterated Italy’s unwavering support for Tunisia’s endeavors in this regard.
Media reports indicated that Italy could potentially bolster cooperation by providing the Tunisian coast guard with additional patrol boats, aimed at curbing the departure of dinghies carrying migrants.
Collaboration Between Italy and Tunisia
Renato Schifani, President of the region of Sicily, emphasized the pressing need for increased collaboration between Italy and Tunisia to address the escalating migrant situation. Schifani highlighted Tunisia’s significance as the primary departure point for migrants attempting to reach Italian shores, with Sicily serving as the initial landing point. However, as the influx continues, the situation is verging on becoming unmanageable.
The Italian Interior Ministry is grappling with the mounting pressure on Lampedusa, an island that has become a pivotal transit point. With an official capacity of just 400, the island recently hosted over 4,000 migrants. In an attempt to alleviate the strain, over half of the migrants at Lampedusa’s Imbriacola facility were transferred to mainland cities on Tuesday via ferries, planes, and navy ships.
Yet, this relocation strategy has limitations, as city councils struggle to provide resources and accommodations for the newly arrived migrants. This challenge is prompting local officials to call for a comprehensive response from the European Union (EU). Schifani stressed the urgency of addressing the global emergency and urged European partners not to turn a blind eye to the crisis.
