Morocco-Italy: Migration, security, counterterrorism at focus of talks between Interior Ministers

Moroccan Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit held a working meeting in Rabat on Friday with his Italian counterpart, Ms. Luciana Lamorgese, that focused on a set of issues, including migration, security, and counterterrorism.

The meeting also discussed the issue of unaccompanied minors in an illegal situation in Italy. Laftit recalled in this vein Morocco’s clear and firm commitment to accept the return of duly identified unaccompanied minors.

He also recalled that the Moroccan Departments concerned are working for the final settlement of this issue in application of the high instructions of King Mohammed VI.

The two officials reviewed police cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the fight against terrorism and organized crime.

Laftit welcomed in this connection the fruitful collaboration between the security services of the two countries, marked by regular coordination and a permanent exchange of information and intelligence, a press release from the Interior Ministry said.

Laftit, who noted the quality of cooperation between the two countries’ interior departments, called for the strengthening of this cooperation, given the many challenges facing both countries, especially those related to security and migration.

He recalled, in this regard, that a responsible approach and efficient cooperation are the appropriate tools to address these challenges.

During her visit to Rabat, the Italian official also conferred with Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita.