Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has acknowledged Libya’s support in Italy’s efforts to combat illegal migration.
He highlighted a reduction in the number of illegal migrants arriving in Italy by sea, attributing this to a decrease in departures from Libya.
Piantedosi stated, “Reducing illegal departures also means reducing the risk of tragedies. Combating human trafficking, in any form, primarily serves to save lives.” The minister discussed the cooperation between Libya, Tunisia, and Italy in tackling migration.
He said, “We are enhancing cooperation in several areas, from preventing departures on land to rescue and recovery operations at sea. The most significant aspect is a complex programme for supported voluntary repatriation implemented by Libya and Tunisia. This programme offers migrants alternative resettlement opportunities in their home countries, in collaboration with us and international humanitarian organisations.”
Piantedosi emphasised that this cooperation is developing within approved and often funded joint programmes.
He stressed the importance of maintaining high levels of vigilance and the need to promote a culture of dignity within the European Union.
In April, Piantedosi announced Italy’s efforts to manage irregular migration by promoting voluntary return programs from Libya and Tunisia, in partnership with key humanitarian organizations.
Speaking to the Italian Parliament, Piantedosi emphasized Italy’s commitment to addressing the root causes of migration by fostering economic and social development in migrants’ countries of origin, through international support and significant investments as part of the Mattei plan.
According to data from the Italian Ministry of Interior released in March, at least 6,560 migrants have illegally arrived in Italy since the beginning of the year until the 15th of March.
Approximately two-thirds of the total migrants arrived from Libya. Analysis of boat departure countries reveals a significant shift from the previous year, with arrivals from Libya to Italy surpassing those from Tunisia.
