Ivorian president promises support to deal with irregular migrants heading to Italy

By James Tasamba

KIGALI, Rwanda (AA) – Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara promised continuous support to deal with irregular migrants heading to Italian shores during a discussion Wednesday with his counterpart Sergio Mattarella in the capital Abidjan.

Italy has for years been struggling to deal with the challenge of large numbers of people arriving on its island of Lampedusa from North Africa enroute to Europe.

“I have affirmed the readiness of Ivory Coast to continue to work within the framework of the agreement signed between the two ministers in charge of security to fight against irregular immigration to Italy,” Ouattara said at a joint news conference.

Mattarella, who arrived in Abidjan on Tuesday, recognized Ivory Coast’s role in the stability of the region and as a major security partner for Italy and Europe.

He also expressed his country's commitment to the stability and development of the African continent and West Africa in particular.