Italy, Tunisia to discuss extending EU-backed migrant deal

The talks were attended by presidents, premiers, and ministers, with Pope Francis appealing to them to help those seeking a better life and escaping poverty and conflict.

During the conference, Prime Minister Meloni emphasized the focus on illegal and legal immigration, refugee support, and cooperation to support development in Africa. She expressed her commitment to address the issue of migrant arrivals in Italy, which has seen nearly 80,000 coastal arrivals since January, compared to 33,000 in the same period the previous year.

While the Italian government has taken measures to hinder humanitarian ships rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean, they have been unable to prevent departures, which primarily originate from Tunisia and Libya.

Italy, along with the European Commission, is seeking increased engagement with Tunisia and has promised funding to help curb emigration from its territory. Additionally, Meloni has been working as an intermediary between Tunisia and the International Monetary Fund, attempting to address the North African country's financial challenges and stalled bailout package.

Last week, the EU signed a memorandum of understanding with Tunisia, pledging 105 million euros ($117 million) in direct European aid to prevent migrant boat departures and combat smugglers. The talks in Rome aimed to find a model for building new relations with North African neighbors, seeking a collaborative approach to address migration challenges in the region.

The talks in Rome are a sign that Italy is taking the issue of migration seriously. The Italian government has been under pressure to do more to address the issue, and the talks with Tunisia are a step in the right direction. The EU's involvement is also a positive sign, as it shows that the bloc is committed to working with its member states to address the issue of migration.

The talks in Rome are a starting point, and it remains to be seen whether they will be successful in curbing the arrival of migrants to European shores. However, they are a positive step, and they show that Italy and the EU are serious about addressing this important issue. (ILKHA)