Egypt, Italy discuss ways to combat illegal migration

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have discussed efforts to join hands in combating illegal migration.

The two leaders, in a phone conversation, also underlined the importance of coordinating international efforts to stop irregular migration.

The Egyptian Presidency said in a statement that Sisi commended ongoing Egyptian-Italian cooperation to address the many challenges in the Mediterranean region.

The two leaders also focused on enhancing bilateral relations and response to the global food crisis, agreeing to hold intensive coordination and consultations on various regional issues.

Egypt used to be a popular destination for illegal migrants trying to reach Europe through Libya via the Mediterranean Sea, but the country has succeeded in stopping the influx since 2016.