On Wednesday, representatives from 28 African and European countries met in Libya’s capital, Tripoli, to discuss how best to tackle illegal migration. During his opening statement, Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah emphasized the moral responsibility of the international community towards migrants who risk life and limb to journey to Europe. Libya is a major departure point for migrants who are looking to cross the Mediterranean into Europe. Over the years, the EU has provided the Libyan Coast Guard with equipment and funding to stem the influx of migrants onto its shores. Dbeibah told reporters that Libya does not have the resources to tackle the problem and called on wealthier countries to render more assistance and provide the funds needed to halt the influx of migrants. Dbeibah’s Tunisian counterpart, Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani, echoed his thoughts when he also called for increased financial aid from Europe.
SOURCE: AL JAZEERA
