Italy and Tunisia Strengthen Diplomatic Ties
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni embarked on her fourth visit to Tunisia last week, signaling the growing significance of bilateral relations between the two nations. During the visit, Italy and Tunisia signed three agreements, including a €105 million package of cash and credit lines, aimed at strengthening economic ties and addressing the pressing issue of illegal immigration to Europe.
Italy’s Strategic Focus on Tunisia
Analysts attribute Tunisia’s growing importance within Italy’s foreign policy framework to its role as a key departure point for migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. To combat this, Italy has committed €50 million in cash to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in Tunisia, as well as a €55 million credit line to support small and midsize enterprises.
Migration and Italy’s Right-Wing Government
Italy’s right-wing government, led by Meloni, has made containing migration a top policy priority, particularly in advance of the upcoming European Parliament elections. As a result, Italy is seeking to strengthen its relationship with Tunisia to secure its collaboration in curbing irregular migration.
Tunisia’s Role in Meloni’s Africa Strategy
Tunisia also plays a crucial role in Meloni’s broader Africa strategy, known as the Mattei Plan. This plan aims to position Italy as a key bridge between Europe and Africa. The agreements signed during Meloni’s visit are seen as part of an effort to persuade Tunisia to crack down on irregular migration.
Experts’ Perspectives on the Agreements
According to Mario Savina, a North Africa researcher at Sapienza University of Rome, the agreements are intended to reinforce Italy’s commitment to cooperate with Tunisia as long as it continues to cooperate on migration. However, some experts, such as Kelly Petillo from the European Council on Foreign Relations, believe the agreements aim to stabilize Tunisia as a means of reducing irregular migration. However, she warns that this approach may not address the underlying structural problems, such as corruption and poor economies, that drive migration.
Contradictions and Complexities
Analysts point out the contradiction of investing in a country to prevent its residents from leaving. While improved living conditions can contribute to a decrease in migration in the long term, they may initially lead to an increase as people gain access to the resources needed to leave.
Short-Term and Long-Term Solutions
Experts agree that investment in Tunisia alone will not yield the short-term effects Italy seeks in reducing migration. Addressing the root causes of migration will require a comprehensive approach, including addressing human rights violations and providing sufficient support measures. In the meantime, Italy may resort to reinforcing security in Tunisia, which could lead to unintended consequences.
Tunisia’s Concerns and Aspirations
Tunisian President Kais Saied has expressed concerns about the number of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa entering Tunisia. He is exploiting this situation to secure benefits from his European partners, according to analysts. However, experts believe Saied’s tough rhetoric on migration may be primarily aimed at domestic consumption, and the agreements between Tunisia and Italy remain highly lucrative for the Tunisian government.
