The Italian government is feverishly looking for solutions to prevent the influx of migrants from getting out of hand. Because more than 40,000 people have already arrived this year – four times more than in the same period of 2022.
Scenarios of up to 400,000 arrivals by the end of 2023 are worrying for the government in Rome. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi and Immigration Commissioner Valerio Valenti will meet the presidents of five regions on Thursday to find solutions for the housing of migrants.
The government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wants to set up a deportation center for undocumented migrants in every region. According to media reports in Rome, the cabinet wants to speed up the repatriation of foreigners without a residence permit.
Provide funds for Tunisia
At the same time, the Meloni government wants to make 100 million euros available for the economic stabilization of Tunisia. “We are urging that a first tranche of funding be allocated to support reforms and that as these are implemented, more funding can gradually be made available. Let’s see if the International Monetary Fund and the EU want to cooperate with us,” Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said.
Meanwhile, the EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, has arrived in Tunisia. The visit is said to be related to the crisis the country is going through and the surge in migration.
Risky crossings cost lives
At the moment, many people seeking protection dare to make the dangerous crossing to Europe again in often unseaworthy boats. People are dying again and again in the Mediterranean. Dozens of people have also drowned in Tunisia in recent days. Local media reported that a mortuary in the coastal town of Sfax was completely overcrowded after several boating accidents.
France closes its borders
Meanwhile, France is preparing to close its border with Italy. Starting next week, 150 additional agents will be deployed at the border to deter illegal immigrants. The government is also planning a new border guard unit, which will include police, customs and army. It will be operational within six months. Paris also wants to close the Alpine passes that people smugglers use to bring migrants from Italy to France.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
