Italy releases aid to stop Tunisian exodus
Baku, February 17 (AZERTAC). Italy has released five million euros in emergency aid along with extensive credit facilities to help Tunisia`s turmoil-battered economy.
The move has been triggered by Rome`s alarm at the mass exodus of thousands of Tunisian migrants turning up on a Sicilian island hoping to make it to mainland Italy and future employment.
Italy`s Interior Minister Roberto Maroni is demanding the European Commission help with the costs of the crisis.
“I have asked, and I think it is fundamental, that Europe - at its top levels - meaning heads of state and government - defines a strategy, takes the initiative and starts a strong diplomatic action towards all the countries that are touched by these phenomena.”
EU Foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said on a visit to Tunis that a trade deal between Tunisia and the bloc should be agreed within months.
It is hoped these efforts will stimulate the country`s economy, creating jobs and lessening the need for migrants to try for Europe.
Over 5,000 illegal migrants have made it to the island of Lampedusa in just a week and that is set to quadruple according to some accounts.
Italy has described it as a humanitarian emergency. With unrest spreading in the region more illegal migrants are likely to attempt to enter Europe via its Mediterranean border.
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