ROME: Italy hosted numerous national leaders in Rome on Sunday, at a conference aimed at extending an EU-backed deal with Tunisia to curb the arrival of migrants to European shores. “The Mediterranean can no longer be the theatre of death and inhumanity”, the pontiff said during his weekly Angelus prayer. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said talks would focus on illegal and legal immigration, refugee support and “the most important... wide cooperation to support development in Africa”. Italy and the European Commission have sought to step up engagement with Tunisia, promising funding if it stems emigration from its territory. Last week, the EU signed a memorandum of understanding with Tunisia that provides for 105 million euros ($117 million) in direct European aid to prevent the departure of migrant boats and combat smugglers.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 24, 2023 02:25 UTC