Among other initiatives, Meloni's plan seeks to swap energy investments for African efforts to curb migration. The so-called Mattei Plan hopes to position Italy as a key bridge between Africa and Europe, funneling energy north in exchange for investment in deals aimed at curbing migrant departures across the Mediterranean Sea. Meloni said the summit had been a success that had produced many areas of potential cooperation, particularly with regards to energy. In a news conference after the summit, Meloni acknowledged that it was important to ensure that work begin on projects that will make a difference on the ground. Von der Leyen described the plan as "complementary" to the European Union's own Africa package, unveiled in 2022 and worth €150 billion.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 29, 2024 15:46 UTC