Italy signs deal to take in migrant workers from Tunisia

Rome (Reuters) – Italy has signed an agreement with Tunisia to admit approximately 4,000 workers into the country as part of its commitment to assist Tunisia in managing the migrant influx at its borders. The agreement was finalized during a visit by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to Tunis, where he held meetings with Tunisian Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar and President Kais Saied, according to a statement from Tajani’s office.

The agreement establishes official migration channels for “skilled workers” who are interested in relocating to Italy. Italy has also pledged to assist Tunisia in its efforts to combat human trafficking and create employment opportunities for its young population, according to an Italian briefing note.

“Tunisia faces significant migratory pressure, particularly from sub-Saharan countries, and is the primary destination for repatriations from Italy,” the Italian document stated, noting that 1,615 migrants have been returned to Tunisia thus far this year.

Migrant arrivals to Italy by sea have nearly doubled in 2023 compared to the same period in 2022, with approximately 140,000 individuals arriving ashore. The majority, 91%, came from Tunisia, prompting Italy to collaborate with local authorities in an attempt to address the issue.

On Tuesday, Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi called on the European Union to establish an agreement to support Tunisia’s endeavors in preventing migrant departures by boat.

In July, President Saied was invited to a migration conference hosted in Rome. However, he faced criticism following his decision to dissolve parliament and govern by decree, which the opposition claims was a coup.

(Reporting by Angelo Amante; editing by Barbara Lewis)