German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock announced on Thursday that Berlin will soon provide aid to migrant charity groups operating in the Mediterranean. This comes amidst a disagreement between Germany and Italy on the issue. Baerbock defended the work of sea rescuers, emphasizing their vital role.
Baerbock revealed during a press conference with her Italian counterpart, Antonio Tajani, that the disbursement of funds to these charity groups is imminent. This announcement followed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s letter to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressing surprise at Germany’s decision to finance these groups.
The German government is advocating at the European Union level for the establishment of a new European sea rescue mission. Baerbock argued that until this mission is operational, civilian sea rescuers in the Mediterranean play a crucial role in saving lives.
Tajani also addressed the issue, reminding Baerbock of Meloni’s letter. He clarified that the concern is not against NGOs, but rather that they should not act as a magnet for irregular migrants.
Italy has taken a tough stance on illegal immigration. The country has experienced a significant increase in migrant arrivals this year, with over 133,000 individuals arriving by sea so far. This compares to around 69,800 arrivals during the same period last year.
Reporting by Friederike Heine and Francesca Piscioneri, editing by Alvise Armellini
Credit: The Star : News Feed
