Armenian Foreign Ministry Denies Knowledge of Proposed Migrant Repatriation Center
YEREVAN, August 4, 2026 – The Armenian side has no information regarding Italy’s proposal to establish an illegal migrant repatriation center in Armenia, Ani Badalayan, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told Azatutyun. This statement follows reports from the leading Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, which suggested that Italy is proposing to send illegal immigrants who have entered the EU to third countries, including Armenia.
When questioned by Azatutyun about whether the Italian side had any official contact with Yerevan on this matter and what the Armenian side’s position was, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson responded, “We have no such information.”
Italy’s Proposal and the ‘Albanian Model’
According to Corriere della Sera, Rome’s proposal is based on an agreement signed last year between Italy and Albania. Under this agreement, Italy deports illegal immigrants to special camps located in Albania and financed by Rome, where they await repatriation to their countries of origin.
“On Tuesday, Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi is preparing to propose an extension of the ‘Albanian model’ to the members of the EU Council,” Corriere della Sera wrote, adding that “according to the Italian plan, the EU should finance ‘repatriation centers’ to be located in a number of countries, including Rwanda, Ghana, Senegal, Tunisia, Libya, Mauritania, Uganda, Egypt, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Montenegro, and Ethiopia.”
Context of Illegal Immigration and Repatriation Efforts
The issue of illegal immigration has been a significant concern for European Union member states, particularly those on the Mediterranean frontlines. Italy, facing a continuous influx of migrants, has been actively seeking solutions to manage the situation, including agreements with non-EU countries for the processing and repatriation of migrants.
The ‘Albanian model’ has been a controversial approach, drawing both support from those advocating for stricter border controls and criticism from human rights organizations concerned about the welfare of migrants and asylum seekers. The potential expansion of this model to other countries, as reported by Corriere della Sera, highlights the ongoing debate and challenges in addressing illegal immigration within the EU.
Armenia’s Position on International Cooperation
Armenia, a country with its own set of geopolitical and internal challenges, has historically engaged in various forms of international cooperation. However, the establishment of a migrant repatriation center of this nature would represent a new and significant undertaking, requiring extensive diplomatic negotiations, legal frameworks, and logistical preparations. The Foreign Ministry’s statement indicates that such discussions have not yet taken place at an official level.
The lack of information on the Armenian side suggests that the proposal, if indeed under consideration by Italy, is still in its preliminary stages or has not been formally communicated to Yerevan. Future developments will depend on potential official communications between Italy and Armenia, as well as the broader discussions within the EU regarding the implementation of such a model.
The situation underscores the complex nature of international migration policies and the need for clear communication and bilateral agreements between sovereign nations when addressing issues of this magnitude. The international community will be closely watching how this proposal evolves and whether Armenia will be approached for formal discussions on the matter.
Source: azatutyun.am
