The Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani stressed the importance of Italy’s role with regard to the Libyan crisis. He stressed that Italy is working for stability in the entire region in general, and Libya in particular.
In a press statement, Tajani referred to what he called “the various influences exercised by Turkey and Egypt, and the talks with all forces in the field.”
He said that “Libya is living in a different situation than it was 5-6 months ago,” as he considers it “necessary to take into account what is happening.” He indicated that “Turkey has more influence in Tripoli, while the Egyptians have influence in Cyrenaica, and for this reason Italy is seeking dialogue with everyone.”
Tajani added that his visit to Tunisia and Turkey, as well as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit to Algeria aimed at “working for stability in the region,” stressing that Rome is working with the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Days ago, Tajani said that they are working together with Libya to find a solution to the illegal immigration crisis, according to the memorandum of understanding signed last January.
Tajani pointed out that Libya is the main port of departure for migrants coming from the Mediterranean.
This came in a joint press conference with his Libyan counterpart, Najla Al-Mangoush, and the European Commissioner for Enlargement Policy, Olivér Várhelyi.
The conference was held on the sidelines of the handover ceremony of the private boat, TSLCG to the Libyan Coast Guard. Tajani added that Libya is “a strategic country in combating immigration and human trafficking.” He stressed the need to strengthen support for transit countries.
Tajani pointed out that the “Libyan authorities have made efforts, but the flows of immigrants are not high, and that Italy is committed to the IRINI and EUBAM Libya to monitor the borders. Italy’s priority is to achieve stability in Libya, and we need greater cooperation with the European Union.”