Keir Starmer in Rome to Meet Far-Right Premier Giorgia Meloni Sparks Criticism
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss irregular immigration has raised eyebrows within his own party and beyond.
While Starmer aimed to understand Italy’s reduction in migrant arrivals, his visit with the far-right Italian leader has been condemned by members of the Labour Party for seeking advice from a neo-fascist government.
Starmer also toured a national immigration coordination center alongside Italy’s interior minister, Matteo Piantedosi, signaling a commitment to addressing illegal immigration despite his rejection of previous controversial plans.
The UK faces ongoing challenges with undocumented migrants crossing the English Channel, prompting the government to explore offshore processing options similar to deals Italy has made with Albania and Tunisia.
Despite criticisms, Starmer expressed the importance of prevention and collaboration with countries of origin to curb the flow of migrants, highlighting the positive impact on Italy’s reduced arrivals this year.
As debates on immigration policies continue, leaders strive to balance deterrence measures with humanitarian considerations in addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time.