Italian MP reaffirms commitment to Albania migration deal despite legal challenges
An MP from Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party, Giangiacomo Calovini, emphasized in an interview with Euronews Albania that the Italian government will not back down from its migration agreement with Albania. This comes even after a recent ruling by the Rome Court ordered the return of seven migrants from Albania to Italy, following the suspension of their stay at the Gjadër center.
Why is this important: The Italian government’s firm stance underscores its dedication to managing migration through international agreements, despite legal hurdles. This commitment is central to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration, which prioritizes border security and migration management.
What did he say:
- “In Italy today, there are 5-6 million migrants,” Calovini explained, noting the broader European context. “Italy has made a call at the European level to address the migration issue in Brussels, as most migrants arriving in Italy aim to move on to other European countries.”
He stressed that Meloni’s government is determined to resolve these challenges, which have significant implications for national security. The agreement with Albania, signed to address the influx of migrants from the Middle East, remains a crucial part of Italy’s strategy.
- “For a friendly country like Albania, which aims to join the EU, these days have brought legal challenges,” Calovini said. “But we will continue our efforts to ensure the full realization of this agreement.”
Context: The recent legal decisions have sparked debate in Italy, with critics questioning the efficacy and legality of the migration agreements. Nevertheless, the Italian government maintains that collaboration with Albania is vital for addressing broader migration issues and ensuring national and regional stability.