Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani warned of the escalation of the political and military situation in Sudan, despite a truce between the two parties.
He expected that migration flows to Italy, via Libya would increase in the coming weeks due to the ongoing unrest in Sudan.
“There is a state of extreme instability. Many (Sudanese) people go to Chad, and to neighbouring countries, like Egypt,” Tajani said. “Before they get to Italy they will have to go through Libya or Tunisia. it takes a lot to cope with it,” he explained.
“Migration flows are likely to increase in the coming weeks and months. But in the meantime, we are very satisfied with the return of the Italian citizens (from Sudan). I thank the crisis unit of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, our Ambassador in Khartoum, our diplomats, and officials,” Tajani said.
The recent outbreak of conflict in Sudan will have a negative effect on the situation in neighbouring Libya, particularly in the southern areas of the country, according to the Economist Intelligence website.
The fighting between Sudan’s military and paramilitary leadership threatens to derail plans to repatriate Sudanese mercenaries from Libya. Persistent political uncertainty in Libya, coupled with Sudan’s deepening conflict, is also likely to delay Libya’s political transition, and exacerbate security risks.
On Saturday, Tajani said that there is a very tricky situation in the country due to the increase in “illegal” immigration from Libya and Tunisia.
In statements to Italian TV channel Rete 4’s Forehand-Backhand chat show, Tajani added “unfortunately they all arrive in Italy, and while the European Union has not shown sufficient solidarity with us up to now, now it is beginning to understand this is necessary.”
The FM stressed that halting the flow of “illegal” migrants is mainly linked to the improvement of the situation in Libya and Tunisia.
Tajani confirmed that they have “made great efforts at all levels to achieve security and stability in Libya.” He expressed Italy’s desire to “involve all influential countries in Libyan affairs to contribute to the establishment of peace and stability in the country.”
He indicated that “if the situation in Libya stabilises, this will reflect positively on the security of North Africa as a whole, and countries south of the Sahara.”
As well as adding that Rome considers the possibility of concluding bilateral agreements with some countries to encourage the return of “illegal” immigrants.
He expressed his understanding of the crises facing immigrant countries of origin, such as famines, wars, and earthquakes. He noted that Italy is “working on a great plan for the development of Africa.”
The Italian police stated that 53,310 migrants arrived in Italy in 2022.