Meloni's Strategy: Boosting Italian Influence in Africa while Curbing Migration

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's development plan for Africa aims to swap energy investments for African efforts to curb migration, positioning Italy as a key bridge between Africa and Europe. The plan, inspired by Enrico Mattei, founder of Italy's state-owned energy giant Eni, initially involves €5.5 billion in funding focused on energy, agriculture, water, health, and education sectors. Critics argue the plan is too focused on fossil fuels and call for a renewable energy drive. The summit, attended by representatives from over 25 countries, aims to address the factors fueling deadly migrant crossings in the central Mediterranean.