Italian navy ship brings 49 migrants to Albania amid renewed bilateral agreement
The Italian military ship Cassiopea arrived at Shëngjin port early this morning, transporting 49 migrants from the island of Lampedusa. The migrants, originating from Egypt, Bangladesh, Ivory Coast, and Gambia, will undergo verification and health checks at the Shëngjin reception center before being transferred to the Gjadër camp.
Why is this important: This marks the third contingent of migrants sent to Albania under the Italy-Albania migration agreement, negotiated between Prime Minister Edi Rama and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. On October 16 and November 8, 2024, two earlier groups of migrants, primarily from Egypt and Bangladesh, were sent to Albania but later repatriated following rulings by Italian courts, which deemed their countries of origin as safe. The latest transfer reflects Italy’s adjusted legal framework, which now places decisions in the hands of appellate judges under legislation that took effect on January 11, 2025. Italian authorities are hopeful this revised approach will yield better outcomes. Much of Europe is also watching if and how the pact will work.
Context: Albanian police announced comprehensive measures to ensure security and streamline border procedures for the new arrivals. This agreement marks the reactivation of the Italy-Albania migration partnership after a two-month hiatus.
While the Italian government views Albania as a strategic partner in easing migration pressures on Lampedusa, these transfers have drawn attention to Albania’s growing role in managing European migration challenges. Gjadër camp remains central to Albania’s implementation of its commitments under the deal.
The process for these migrants will follow strict protocols, with initial health and security screenings to be completed before further proceedings determine their status.
Italian authorities, under Prime Minister Meloni, are navigating the complexities of balancing migration management with judicial rulings on repatriations. Albania’s role as a host country underlines its evolving position in European migration politics.
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