Italy pledges 200 million Euros to curb migrant flow

Italy has pledged 200 million euros in order to combat the number of migrants making the perilous journey to reach Europe.

The funding will go to several African countries to boost the efforts of security forces to curb the flow of migrants.

The security forces will be trained and equipment to monitor the borders will be purchased by the European country.

According to Italy’s foreign minister Angelino Alfano, the pledge will also fight against human trafficking and illegal migration.

The countries who will receive the funds are mainly Niger, Libya and Tunisia. The three countries are considered key transit and departure points for the vast majority of African migrants trying to Europe.

Last year, proved to be the most deadly for refugees and migrants crossing the Mediterranean as the death toll surpassed 5000.

Furthermore, the UN refugee agency UNHCR said that an average of 14 people died daily.

AFP