Controversial Migration Deal: Italy and Albania's Bold Agreement Under Scrutiny

The EU is closely monitoring a deal between Italy and Albania, where migrants picked up by Italy are processed in Albania. The agreement has faced legal challenges, with Italy introducing a decree to address these issues. Human rights groups criticize the deal as conflicting with international laws.

A controversial migration deal between Italy and Albania is now under the watchful eyes of the European Union, as it tests the boundaries of international law and bilateral agreements.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed that while the EU will monitor the Italy-Albania agreement closely, it will refrain from commenting on its specifics. This deal, signed by Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, allows up to 3,000 migrants picked up by Italy monthly to be processed in Albania.

The agreement, designed to streamline asylum requests, faced immediate hindrances when a judicial ruling allowed the return of migrants to Italy, citing unsafe conditions in their countries of origin. In response, Italy passed a decree shortening the list of 'safe' countries to facilitate faster deportation processes.

(With inputs from agencies.)