Arriving Tuesday in Libya's capital, the Italian Defense Minister, Elisabetta Trenta, discussed with the Head of the Presidential Council Fayez Al-Sirraj the challenges posed to both countries by the illegal immigration issues, considering Italy, as Libya, a crossing country for the immigrants.
Trenta reiterated on her visit the Italian support for stability, national reconciliation and security in Libya, the media office of Al-Sirraj reported.
Al-Sirraj, meanwhile, stressed on the need for more cooperation between the two countries, saying tackling illegal immigration will only be vital when its root sources are addressed; namely: the source countries which need development projects for the youth so they remain productive in their countries and avoid risks.
"We should not ignore the serious threats posed through the southern borders of Libya, which need security against the migrants' flows." Al-Sirraj remarked.
He also asked Italy to help partially lift the arms embargo on Libya to assist the coastguards and petroleum facilities guard as well as the presidential guard in their assigned duties.
The meeting tackled as well the return of Italian companies to Libya, supporting health sector and sending Libyan injured persons to Italian hospitals, let alone energy sector cooperation.
Libya's Foreign Minister Mohammed Sayala, Italian Chief of Staff and his Libyan counterpart as well as other officials from both countries attended the meeting.
