"Italy's G7 Focus: Championing Africa's Development and Advancing AI, Asserts PM Meloni"

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized the importance of building strategic partnerships and investments in Africa rather than offering charity as a means to address migration issues. She highlighted this approach during a year-end news conference, referencing the recent EU Migration and Asylum Pact and Italy's Mattei Plan, which seeks to expand cooperation with Africa beyond energy. Despite reforms and a focus on development, Meloni acknowledged the challenges her government faces in reducing illegal migration, as Italy continues to be the primary European destination for migrants crossing the Mediterranean, with a significant increase in arrivals in 2023.