Edi Rama met Giorgia Meloni in Palazzo Chigi to discuss expanding migrant accommodation centers in Albania.
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| Edi Rama and Giorgia Melon at Palazzo Chigi, Rome, April 16, 2026 |
According to Italian media, including Il Giornale, the two leaders agreed on a new plan to increase the number of migrants hosted in facilities located in Gjadër and Shëngjin. The move is part of a broader Italy-Albania cooperation framework aimed at managing rising migration flows across the Mediterranean.
Italy expects a surge in migration due to escalating crises in the Middle East and the upcoming summer season, traditionally marked by higher crossing attempts. In response, the Italian government is reinforcing border controls, accelerating repatriation procedures, and even considering a temporary naval blockade. These measures reflect growing pressure on Rome to control irregular migration, a key political issue ahead of the 2027 elections.
The agreement has sparked political debate. Opposition voices in Italy have criticized the plan, controversially describing the Albanian centers as “concentration camps,” while the government defends the initiative as a necessary step to maintain order and security. The development is closely monitored across the Balkans, including Albania and Kosovo, given its regional implications.