Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni is set to visit Albania to express gratitude for the country's willingness to host thousands of asylum seekers. The visit coincides with local and European Parliament elections, where migration is a key campaign issue.
In November, Meloni and Albania's Prime Minister Edi Rama signed a 5-year deal, under which Albania agreed to shelter up to 3,000 migrants rescued from international waters monthly while Italy processes their asylum claims. This could result in up to 36,000 asylum seekers being sent to Albania annually.
Meloni's visit includes touring two migrant detention centers in Gjader and Shengjin. The facilities, costing over 600 million euros, will be fully operated by Italy while Albanian guards provide external security. Italy will either welcome migrants granted international protection or organize their deportation from Albania if refused.
The deal, endorsed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, has faced criticism from human rights groups. Albania, a non-EU member, has been selective in agreeing to such arrangements, with Prime Minister Rama emphasizing the historical ties between the two countries.
Italy's opposition views the deal as a costly pre-election move, while Albanian lawmakers unsuccessfully challenged it in court on human rights grounds. The agreement represents an attempt to address the ongoing migration challenges faced by the EU.
Despite reduced migrant arrivals in Italy this year, the issue remains a focal point in European politics. Meloni's visit underscores the complex dynamics surrounding migration policies and the need for innovative solutions to manage the crisis.
