Brussels intends to offer new economic support in exchange for Tunisia’s increased efforts to stop illegal departures in Mediterranean waters. Tens of thousands of people have already crossed the Mediterranean to Italy this year.
More than 10,000 exiles have successfully crossed the Mediterranean to Italy since the beginning of the year, our RFI French network reported Friday (May 21, 2021) by journalist Michel Picard from Tunis. But hundreds have also died.
Tunisia’s financial situation is at its worst, and Europe is willing to provide economic aid to support local development in exchange for Tunisia’s efforts. Italian Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese praised those Tunisians who returned from Italy. She expressed her gratitude to the head of state and government prime minister for their willingness to continue repatriation in the face of the epidemic.
EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs Ylva Johansson argued that illegal departures should be discouraged by strengthening security cooperation against the “passeur” (snakeheads) who sell dreams. She added that passeurs take advantage of young people’s European dreams, but that most Tunisians who arrive illegally will be deported.
The Tunisian president insisted on a comprehensive approach with a view to addressing the underlying causes of departures, especially due to unemployment and poverty.
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