Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on
Wednesday reiterated the government's assertion that the Russian
Wagner mercenary group, which has a presence in Syria and
several African States, has had a hand in the rise in the number
of refugees and migrants trying to reach Italy, while stressing
that this is not the only factor.
"There's a complicated international situation and things
happening at the same time that create migratory pressure,"
Tajani told Sky television.
"I'm thinking of the earthquake in Turkey and Syria, with the
easing of Ankara's immigration controls, a difficult situation
in the Horn of Africa.
"There is, I repeat, the presence of the Wagner mercenaries,
which is not the only element, but one of many elements.
"The whole situation is complicated".
Tajani, who is also deputy premier, reiterated Rome's calls for
the European Union to overhaul its approach so that Italy and
the other countries most exposed to migrant flows due to their
geographical position are not left to bear the whole burden.
"Europe must intervene," he said.
"Italy can't do it all on its own.
"It is necessary to invest in Africa.
"An immediate reaction is needed because the situation risks
crashing every day.
"It is necessary to act and support Tunisia in particular to
stop a financial collapse".
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
