Italy's Success Story
Italy's interior minister, Matteo Piantedosi, believes that Britain can play a significant role in addressing Europe's immigration challenges. He pointed to Italy's remarkable reduction in migrant arrivals as a potential model for other European countries, including post-Brexit Britain.
New Solutions on the Horizon
Piantedosi highlighted Italy's new agreement with Albania to process migrants outside of Italy's borders as a potential game-changer for the continent. With the G7 interior ministers' meeting approaching, including UK's Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, the minister called on the UK to step up and collaborate.
Innovative Approaches
The Italian government's successful partnerships with Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria have led to a 65% decrease in migrant arrivals. Additionally, the upcoming migrant processing center in Albania aims to act as a strong deterrent, focusing on faster repatriations and providing refuge only to those who truly qualify.
UK's Response
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, under pressure to address small boat crossings, expressed openness to pursuing a similar scheme as Italy. He emphasized the importance of dismantling criminal gangs and swiftly returning illegal entrants to their countries of origin.
Long-Term Strategies
Italy's approach goes beyond border control, focusing on providing viable alternatives for migrants. Initiatives like the Mattei Plan aim to support the development of countries of origin and transit for migrant flows. Sir Keir announced a £4 million contribution to Meloni's initiative to combat irregular migration.
