By Ebi Kesiena
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has travelled to Tunisia to discuss the issue of irregular migration.
This has become necessary due to the importance of the troubled North African country, which is a major embarkation point for illicit migration across the Mediterranean.
Ms. Meloni’s visit follows a call between her and President Kais Saied earlier this week, to address border surveillance and repatriation of undocumented migrants who cross the Mediterranean.
Meanwhile, there’s been an increase in racist assaults on sub-Saharan migrants in Tunisia since an incendiary speech in February by President Saied.
However, Ms. Meloni has warned Europe could face a huge wave of asylum seekers.
Tunisian media say her visit will put more pressure on the country “to play the role of Europe’s coastguard.”
Also, Prime Minister Meloni vowed to grant Tunisia $750 million in aid and to back it in its negotiations with the International Monetary Fund over a crucial bailout.
