Mare Nostrum: Italy takes the lead in EU’s Mediterranean policy

Looking across the Mediterranean, Italy is taking on a prominent role in shaping Europe’s foreign policy toward the Maghreb, particularly in the domains of migration and energy. As the European Union grapples with these interlinked challenges, Rome’s proactive approach in fostering stronger ties with Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco, is redefining its role within the region. Italy’s strategy not only enhances its own geopolitical influence but also aligns with broader European goals of stabilizing its southern neighbors, while ensuring secure energy supplies.

One of the most visible aspects of Italy’s leadership has been its approach to migration, particularly in relation to Tunisia. With irregular migration from North Africa continuing to strain Europe’s borders, Italy has taken on the role of mediator and negotiator with Tunis. In July 2023, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni spearheaded an EU-backed migration agreement with Tunisia, aimed at curbing the flow of migrants in exchange for €1 billion financial aid. The deal is part of Italy’s broader strategy to address the root causes of migration, focusing on economic stabilization, enhanced border controls, and support for Tunisia’s fragile government. By placing itself at the center of these negotiations, Italy is shaping Europe’s migration policy, while securing its position as a key diplomatic player in North Africa.

In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Europe has turned to alternative gas suppliers, with Italy leading the way. The country is deepening its energy cooperation with Algeria as it seeks to bolster its energy security. Algeria, already Europe’s third-largest gas supplier has expanded gas exports to Italy through the TransMediterranean pipeline which connects the two countries. In 2023, Algeria was Italy’s largest single gas supplier, providing over a third of Italy's natural gas needs. Italian energy giant Eni has also invested heavily in joint ventures, further consolidating Rome’s influence in the region. 

Italy’s energy diplomacy is not confined to hydrocarbons. With Europe’s push toward green energy, Italy has positioned itself to become the main conduit for electricity and hydrogen imports from North Africa into Europe. Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco are potential partners in Italy’s vision of an integrated Euro-Mediterranean energy market, where electricity, generated from renewable sources, and green hydrogen flow through Italy to meet Europe’s decarbonization goals. Italy’s infrastructure, geographic proximity, and strategic partnerships make it an ideal hub for these future energy imports.

In taking the lead on migration and energy cooperation with the Maghreb, Italy is becoming a central architect of Europe’s foreign policy toward its southern neighbors. By aligning its national interests with those of the broader European Union, Italy is not only advancing its own strategic objectives but also reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the Mediterranean. 

*Lonzo Cook is a journalist and writer. He spent two decades at CNN in a series of senior editorial and management roles including leading breaking news operations across Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. In addition to writing on international affairs, national security and business, he works with media companies and corporations on how to evolve and create content to stay relevant to key audiences.