Italy Significantly Reduced Influx Of Migrants Despite Lack Of Help From EU - Salvini

Italy has managed to significantly reduce number of undocumented migrants arriving in the country mainly via sea route despite lack of help from the European Union, Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said on Wednesday.

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 17th October, 2018) Italy has managed to significantly reduce number of undocumented migrants arriving in the country mainly via sea route despite lack of help from the European Union, Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said on Wednesday.

"Today I can tell you with satisfaction that even though Europe does not help us at all because of our tougher stance, we managed to significantly reduce number of illegal migrants. And this guarantees our security. But please take a note that nobody helped us on this matter," Salvini said at the "Russia-Italy: Challenges and Perspectives of Economic, Industrial and Commercial Cooperation" event, organized by Confindustria Russia, the association representing and supporting Italian companies operating in the country.

The Italian Cabinet has found itself in a "delicate situation" due to its stance on migration as well as over lobbying review of the EU Dublin Regulation, which allows for refugees to be sent back to the country where they first entered the continent, the official noted.

Italy's new coalition government led by Lega party is pursuing hardline policy on migration. Salvini has repeatedly said that Italy could not remain Europe's "refugee camp" while neighboring countries close their borders and defend their frontiers with weapons.

Italy is one of the most popular destinations among migrants, accounting for nearly 22,000 of sea arrivals since the beginning of this year.