British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s meeting with Italian far-right premier Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss irregular immigration has been labeled as “disturbing” by some members of his Labour Party. Starmer’s visit with Meloni, who leads the anti-immigration Brothers of Italy party, has sparked criticism as it comes after far-right riots in the UK targeting mosques and migrant centers.
Starmer’s visit included discussions with Italy’s interior minister at a national immigration coordination center, where he praised Italy’s efforts to reduce migrant arrivals. He rejected the previous government’s plan to fly asylum seekers to Rwanda but has not ruled out offshore arrangements for asylum claims.
While more than 22,000 people have made the risky journey across the English Channel so far this year, including tragic incidents resulting in deaths, the UK government is seeking advice from Italy on tackling criminal gangs facilitating these perilous crossings.
Italy has signed agreements with Albania and Tunisia to host centers for processing asylum claims, with rejected applicants being returned to their countries of origin. Additionally, Italy has renewed a deal with Libya to reinforce its coastguard and prevent refugees from leaving the country.
Despite criticism, Starmer defended seeking advice from Italy, emphasizing the importance of preventing people from making dangerous journeys in the first place. The drop in refugee arrivals to Italy this year reflects successful efforts to address migration issues along the route.
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