Italian Under Secretary of State for Defense (Deputy Defense Minister) Matteo Perego di Cremnago has said the number of Bangladeshis traveling illegally to Italy via the Mediterranean Sea is not declining.
He expressed his concern during a courtesy meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday.
Held at the state guest house Jamuna, the meeting saw the two leaders engage in wide-ranging discussions on trade and defense cooperation, migration, the upcoming February general election and referendum, European Union election observation, and the July Charter.
Addressing the chief adviser, Perego said: “The Bangladeshi community is well integrated in Italy. However, there is concern over illegal migration via the Mediterranean route.”
He also expressed Italy’s full support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition and the July Charter.
Praising the July Charter, the visiting minister added: “Italy supports extensive reforms.” He reiterated Rome’s backing of Bangladesh’s democratic transition through the February 12 vote.
Describing the Indo-Pacific region as a new center of global gravity, Perego said: “Italy wants to strengthen relations with countries in this region, including Bangladesh, with its growing economy.”
Recalling his long-standing relationship with Italy, the chief adviser said: “Before assuming responsibility for the interim government of Bangladesh, he had assisted in designing the upcoming Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics as a social business event.”
Yunus emphasized the importance of expanding legal migration to developed countries such as Japan and Italy, where the elderly population is increasing. He reaffirmed his commitment to organizing a free, fair, transparent, and festive election on February 12 and praised the European Union for deploying a large team of election observers.
He also sought Italy’s support in strengthening cooperation in Bangladesh’s democratic transition, defense, trade, and investment.
