🇮🇹 Meloni, Saied Meet in Tunis as Italy Ramps Up Efforts to Stem Irregular Migration

 

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni strengthens migration and development diplomacy with President Kais Saied during high-level meeting in Tunis.

Zig Diaries World 
Date: Thursday, 31 July 2025
Time: 18:45 WAT
Location: 📍Tunis, Tunisia

The Italian Prime Minister’s diplomatic visit aligns with Rome’s ongoing efforts to curb irregular migration and deepen energy and development ties with African nations.

In a strategic diplomatic engagement, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Thursday met with Tunisian President Kais Saied in Tunis to advance the Mattei Plan for Africa, Rome’s flagship initiative aimed at sustainable development, energy cooperation, and migration control.

The closed-door meeting held at the Tunisian presidential palace marked a significant step in bilateral efforts to curb irregular migration routes from North Africa to Europe, and to foster economic opportunities for African youth.

Named after Enrico Mattei, founder of Italian energy giant Eni, the Mattei Plan promises what Meloni has termed a “non-predatory” partnership focused on long-term stability. It targets sectors like education, agriculture, health, energy, and water infrastructure across African nations to stem migration at its roots.

“Tangible results from this plan could make dangerous sea crossings less appealing for thousands of migrants each year,” a senior Italian diplomat familiar with the talks said.

Tunisia, which remains a key transit hub for migrants attempting to reach Europe, plays a pivotal role in Meloni’s strategy. Strengthening diplomatic and operational ties with Saied’s administration is seen as essential in executing Rome’s African agenda.

While no new agreements were formally disclosed during the visit, both leaders affirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation.

Meloni emphasized the need for "shared goals" and “respectful partnerships,” noting Italy’s intent to become Africa’s reliable ally, not just a gatekeeper for Europe’s borders.

The visit comes as Italy continues to face internal political pressure to manage migration and external pressure from EU counterparts to support burden-sharing policies. Meloni’s dual-track strategy — tightening borders while investing in development — hinges on collaboration with frontline countries like Tunisia.

Observers believe the success of the Mattei Plan could shape Europe’s broader African engagement model, especially if it delivers economic dividends on the ground.

🏷️Tags: Italy-Tunisia relations, Mattei Plan, migration, Enrico Mattei, Giorgia Meloni, Kais Saied, African development
#ItalyAfrica #MatteiPlan #Tunisia #MigrationPolicy #GiorgiaMeloni #KaisSaied #ZigDiariesWorld