France and Italy Launch Migrant Trafficking Information Exchange

The interior ministers of France and Italy have signed a declaration to exchange information on migrant trafficking, as announced by the French interior ministry, Arab News reported yesterday.

This initiative mirrors a similar agreement established between France and Britain in 2020, aimed at curbing illegal migration attempts to the UK.

French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau emphasized the need to strengthen immigration laws, aligning with Prime Minister’s calls for better border control. The project aims to initiate joint judicial investigations to dismantle trafficking networks that facilitate illegal migration through Italy to the EU, particularly to France.

Immigration remains a contentious issue in Italy, where Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has vowed to reduce migrant entries but has faced challenges in implementing effective measures. Tensions between France and Italy have previously escalated, notably in November 2022, when Italy denied a charity ship docking rights, forcing it to seek refuge in southern France. The two nations share a 500 km land border and are part of the Schengen area.