Italy, France call for ‘full cooperation’ after migrant spat
Associated PressROME — The presidents of Italy and France sought to tamp down tensions over migration Monday by asserting the need for “full cooperation” on a host of issues and the importance of strong bilateral relations after days of diplomatic barbs over the fate of migrants crossing the Mediterranean. They “affirmed the great importance of relations between France and Italy and stressed the need to bring together the conditions for full cooperation in all areas, both bilaterally and within the European Union.” While both are heads of state, Mattarella wields no real power in the day-to-day governing of Italy, which is handled by new far-right Premier Giorgia Meloni. The diplomatic row erupted last week when Italy forced France’s hand to accept a humanitarian rescue ship, the Ocean Viking with 234 migrants aboard, after Italy had refused it a port for weeks. France retaliated by suspending its participation in an EU solidarity pact to accept 3,000 relocated migrants this year from Italy and sent officers to reinforce its southern border crossings and prevent migrants from entering.
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Associated Press
Italy, France call for 'full cooperation' after migrant flap
The Independent
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Associated Press
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Associated Press
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The Independent
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Associated Press
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Associated Press
Italy backs down on 3 migrant ships, 4th heads to Corsica
The Independent
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LA Times
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