Starmer Visits Italy to Discuss Migration Strategy with PM Meloni

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has expressed interest in Italy’s strategy of sending migrants rescued at sea to Albania for asylum processing as he begins his official visit to Rome. Starmer is set to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Monday to discuss migration and explore how the UK might learn from Italy’s approach.

Italy, an EU member state facing the highest number of migrant arrivals, has recently experienced a notable reduction in crossings. “I’ve long believed that prevention and stopping people traveling in the first place is one of the best ways to deal with this particular issue,” Sir Keir said, emphasizing his desire to understand Italy’s methods.

Despite their differing political backgrounds—Starmer leading the UK’s Labour government with a socialist background, and Meloni heading a right-wing coalition in Italy—both leaders are keen on strengthening their European relationship. High on their meeting’s agenda is tackling irregular migration, with both countries aiming to curb arrivals by sea.

The UK is currently struggling with a rise in migrant crossings in the English Channel, with arrivals from France up compared to last year. The crisis turned tragic on Sunday when a boat capsized, resulting in eight fatalities.