Ankara, Rome discuss irregular migration as two countries face common challenges

Italy against military intervention in Niger

Migrants are pictured on a metal boat as Tunisian coastguards try to stop them at sea during their attempt to cross to Italy, off Sfax, Tunisia, April 27, 2023. (Reuters photo)

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani on Tuesday discussed bilateral relations in a phone call, according to Turkish diplomatic sources.

Fidan and Tajani also exchanged views on regional issues, including the Black Sea grain deal.

On July 23, Fidan attended the International Conference on Development and Migration in Rome, which aimed at finding sustainable solutions to combat irregular migration.

Türkiye and Italy face common challenges in migration.

Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan shakes hand with his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani.

Rome is now in another difficulty stemming from the instability in Niger following the military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.

Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) based in Nigeria has threatened Niger and said military intervention is not off the table.

Leaders of the West African bloc want Bazoum to take over the government.

Italy is voicing its contradiction to a possible military intervention, saying such intervention could cause more migration flows to Europe.

Niamey being under the civil government has helped the European Union to stem the flow of arrivals of sub-Saharan migrants in North Africa since 2016, Le Monde reported.

Niger occupies a strategic place on the migratory routes of the continent as a privileged transit corridor towards Libya, it said.

Breaking News Turkey with agencies

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