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  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS (OFF THE COASTS OF SICILY, ITALY) - 9 FEBRUARY 2017: The San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, is seen here from a helicopter of the Italian Navy in international waters off the coast of Sicily, Italy, on Febuary 9th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said trafficker
    CIPG_20170209_NYT-Libya__M3_0881.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS (OFF THE COASTS OF SICILY, ITALY) - 9 FEBRUARY 2017: A SH-90 helicopter of the Italian Navy approaches the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters off the coast of Sicily, Italy, on Febuary 9th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers
    CIPG_20170209_NYT-Libya__M3_0710.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A radar is seen here in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining the Libyan state’s authority for their profit. Serraj’s embat
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9596.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard repair a marine engine during a mechanics course in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermin
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9548.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS (OFF THE COASTS OF SICILY, ITALY) - 9 FEBRUARY 2017: The San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, is seen here from a helicopter of the Italian Navy in international waters off the coast of Sicily, Italy, on Febuary 9th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said trafficker
    CIPG_20170209_NYT-Libya__M3_0862.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS (OFF THE COASTS OF SICILY, ITALY) - 9 FEBRUARY 2017: The San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, is seen here from a helicopter of the Italian Navy in international waters off the coast of Sicily, Italy, on Febuary 9th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said trafficker
    CIPG_20170209_NYT-Libya__M3_0848.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS (OFF THE COASTS OF SICILY, ITALY) - 9 FEBRUARY 2017: The view from the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters off the coast of Sicily, Italy, on Febuary 9th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining the Li
    CIPG_20170209_NYT-Libya__M3_0687.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Two officials of the Libyan Navy simulate a first-aid technique during a first-aid course held in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said trafficker
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9995.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: An officials of the Libyan Navy simulates a cardiopulmonary resuscitation during a first-aid course held in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9988.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: An officials of the Libyan Navy simulates a cardiopulmonary resuscitation during a first-aid course held in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9973.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: An officials of the Libyan Navy simulates a cardiopulmonary resuscitation during a first-aid course held in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9968.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: An officials of the Libyan Navy simulates a first-aid technique during a first-aid course held in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said trafficker
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9966.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Two officials of the Libyan Navy simulate a first-aid technique during a first-aid course held in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said trafficker
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9940.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard studies a map of the Mediterranean Sea  in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9934.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard is seen here in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermini
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9881.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard is seen here in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermini
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9877.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard is seen here in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermini
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9866.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard is seen here in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermini
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9834.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: The view seen from the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining the Libyan state’s authority for their
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9813.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Italian Navy staff is seen here at work during a maneuver in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9712.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard is seen here in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermini
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9700.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Two petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard are seen here in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were under
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9682.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Italian Navy staff is seen here at work during a maneuver in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9676.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Italian Navy staff and Commander Fabio Fares (center) are seen here at work during a maneuver in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9661.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Italian Navy staff is seen here at work during a maneuver in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9629.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Italian Navy staff is seen here at work during a maneuver in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9610.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard repair a marine engine during a mechanics course in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermin
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9594.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard repair a marine engine during a mechanics course in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermin
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9559.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: An Italian Navy medic instructor shows first-aid technique on an official of the Libyan Navy during a first-aid course held in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9483.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: International maritime signal flags are seen here in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining the Libyan state’s authority for their
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9388.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Shoes are left outside a makeshift mosque in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, during the prayer of of a Libyan Navy Coastguard official in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were und
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9383.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard relaxes in the stern of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, after their graduation ceremony for their first training package, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9357.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Italian Navy is seen here at the entrance of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining the Libyan state’s authority for thei
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9272.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A halal food sign, for the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy, is seen here by the mess hall of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he sa
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9236.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: An official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard holds his certificate of attendance during the graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1883.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A member of the Order of Malta walks away from the  deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1526.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: An official of the Italian Navy steps on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1522.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy are seen here on the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before their graduation ceremony for their first training package, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for L
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1464.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Italian Navy staff of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, is seen here on the deck of the ship before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU o
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1375.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A Libyan Coastguard petty official is seen here is seen here in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traffickers were undermining the Libyan state’s authority
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0019.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Containers, where a first-aid course is held for the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy, are seen here in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or f
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0003.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard studies a map of the Mediterranean Sea  in the pilot house of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, as it sets out of the harbor of Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9924.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Petty official of the Libyan Navy Coastguard relax in the stern of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, after their graduation ceremony for their first training package, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for the EU or for Libya”, where he said traf
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9342.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Federica Mogherini,  High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission in the Juncker Commission, addresses the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy during the  graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown i
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1702.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  Officials and petty officials of the Maltese Forces are seen here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1548.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0079_2.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0072_2.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0059_2.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0045_2.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS (OFF THE COASTS OF SICILY, ITALY) - 9 FEBRUARY 2017: An official of the Italian Navy is seen here in front of a SH-90 helicopter of the Italian Navy right before take-off, here on the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters off the coast of Sicily, Italy, on Febuary 9th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was �
    CIPG_20170209_NYT-Libya__M3_0802.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS (OFF THE COASTS OF SICILY, ITALY) - 9 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Italian Navy is seen here at work, as a SH-90 helicopter of the Italian Navy is ready for take-off, here on the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters off the coast of Sicily, Italy, on Febuary 9th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route w
    CIPG_20170209_NYT-Libya__M3_0782.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy attend a first-aid course held by an Belgian Military medic instructor in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9959.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  Officials and petty officials of the Italiany Navy and the Maltese Forces (background) are seen here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Medi
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1966.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy are seen here during their graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1735.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Federica Mogherini,  High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission in the Juncker Commission, addresses the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy during the  graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown i
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1716.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Italian Minister of Defence Roberta Pinotti addresses the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy during the  graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediter
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1683.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy are seen here during their graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1654.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  Officials and petty officials of the Italiany Navy and the Maltese Forces (foreground) are seen here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Medi
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1543.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: A petty official of the Italian Navy ship San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, holds a Libyan flag on the deck of the ship before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1536.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino (54, center), the Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR Med, poses for a portrait on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Centra
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1488.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  An official of the Italian Navy holds the Libyan flag on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either f
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1448.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino (54, center), the Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR Med, is seen here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Medite
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1438.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0079.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0072.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0059.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0045.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: An Italian Navy medic instructor is seen here in a container where a first-aid course is held for the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy, in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0001.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0063_2.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS (OFF THE COASTS OF SICILY, ITALY) - 9 FEBRUARY 2017: Two officials of the Italian Navy are seen here in front of a SH-90 helicopter of the Italian Navy right before take-off, here on the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters off the coast of Sicily, Italy, on Febuary 9th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was
    CIPG_20170209_NYT-Libya__M3_0804.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy attend a first-aid course held by an Italian Navy medic instructor in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9529.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy attend a first-aid course held by an Italian Navy medic instructor in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9448.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy attend a first-aid course held by an Italian Navy medic instructor in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9422.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy attend a first-aid course held by an Italian Navy medic instructor in a container in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_9408.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy are seen here during their graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either for
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1907.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy are seen here during their graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustainable either
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1730.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Federica Mogherini,  High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission in the Juncker Commission, addresses the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy during the  graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown i
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1720.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Italian Minister of Defence Roberta Pinotti addresses the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy during the  graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediter
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1672.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino (54, left) of the Italian Navy, Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR Med, addresses the 89 officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy during the  graduation ceremony of their first training package, here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1599.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino (54, center), the Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR Med, walks away from the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Medite
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1505.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino (54, center), the Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR Med, poses for a portrait on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Centra
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1482.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017:  Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino (54, center), the Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR Med, is seen here on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Medite
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1417.jpg
  • INTERNATIONAL WATERS BETWEEN MALTA AND SICILY - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Officials and petty officials of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy play foosball at the end of the day in the hangar of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, in international waters between Malta and Sicily, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close the (migrant) route from Libya to Italy” and that “the EU has shown it is able to close the routes of irregular migration, as it has done in the eastern Mediterranean.”  Tusk said the Central Mediterranean route was “not sustaina
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_0063.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino (54, center) of the Italian Navy, Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR Med, is seen here followed by Federica Mogherini,  High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission in the Juncker Commission, on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close t
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1578.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - 8 FEBRUARY 2017: Rear Admiral Enrico Credendino (54, center) of the Italian Navy, Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR Med, is seen here followed by Federica Mogherini,  High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission in the Juncker Commission, on the deck of the San Giorgio, an amphibious transport dock of the Italian Navy, before the graduation ceremony of the first training package of the Libyan Navy Coastguard and Libyan Navy  in Valetta, Malta, on Febuary 8th 2017.<br />
<br />
As a consequence of the April 2015 Libya migrant shipwrecks, the EU launched a military operation known as European Union Naval Force Mediterranean (EUNAVFOR Med), also known as Operation Sophia, with the aim of neutralising established refugee smuggling routes in the Mediterranean. The aim of this new operation launched by Europe is to undertake systematic efforts to identify, capture and dispose of vessels as well as enabling assets used or suspected of being used by migrant smugglers or traffickers. On 20 June 2016, the Council of the European Union extended Operation Sophia’s mandate reinforcing it by supporting the training of the Libyan coastguard.<br />
Thus far, following EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia’s activities, 101 suspected smugglers and traffickers have been apprehended and transferred to the Italian<br />
authorities and 380 boats were removed from the criminal organizations' availability. The Operation has saved 32.081 migrants, among whom 1888 children.<br />
<br />
On February 2nd 2017 Italian Premier Paolo Gentiloni and Prime Minister of the U.N. backed Libyan government Fayez al-Serraj signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation to combat illegal migration, human trafficking and contraband and on reinforcing the border between Libya and Italy. The following day, as EU leaders meet in Malta for a summit, European Council President Donald Tusk said after talks with Serraj, that “it is time to close t
    CIPG_20170208_NYT-Libya__M3_1575.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - JUNE 19:  (L-R) Malta Home Affairs Minister Carm Misfud Bonnici, Malta Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, EASO Executive Director Robert Visser and EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Cecilia Malmstrom look at the EASO logo as it is unveiled at the EASO (European Asylum Support Office) inauguration at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, on June 19, 2011. EASO, the European Asylum Support Office, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and European Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström at the Upper Barrakka Gardens,Valletta.<br />
The EASO is a regulatory agency set up to improve the implementation of the Common European Asylum System, develop practical cooperation among member states on asylum, and support member states experiencing particular pressure on their asylum systems. Malta lobbied hard to make it the first EU agency based on its shores.
    CIPG_20110619_NYT_MALTA__MG_0034.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - JUNE 19: EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Cecilia Malmstrom gives a speech at the EASO (European Asylum Support Office) inauguration at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, on June 19, 2011. EASO, the European Asylum Support Office, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and European Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström at the Upper Barrakka Gardens,Valletta.<br />
The EASO is a regulatory agency set up to improve the implementation of the Common European Asylum System, develop practical cooperation among member states on asylum, and support member states experiencing particular pressure on their asylum systems. Malta lobbied hard to make it the first EU agency based on its shores.
    CIPG_20110619_NYT_MALTA__MG_9871.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - JUNE 19: EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Cecilia Malmstrom gives a speech at the EASO (European Asylum Support Office) inauguration at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, on June 19, 2011. EASO, the European Asylum Support Office, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and European Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström at the Upper Barrakka Gardens,Valletta.<br />
The EASO is a regulatory agency set up to improve the implementation of the Common European Asylum System, develop practical cooperation among member states on asylum, and support member states experiencing particular pressure on their asylum systems. Malta lobbied hard to make it the first EU agency based on its shores.
    CIPG_20110619_NYT_MALTA__MG_9841.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - JUNE 19: Malta Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi (center), Malta Home Affairs Minister Carm Misfud Bonnici (right), EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Cecilia Malmstrom (rear left) and EASO Executive Director Robert Visser (rear right) enter the Upper Barrakka Gardens for the EASO (European Asylum Support Office) inauguration in Valletta, Malta, on June 19, 2011. EASO, the European Asylum Support Office, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and European Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström at the Upper Barrakka Gardens,Valletta.<br />
The EASO is a regulatory agency set up to improve the implementation of the Common European Asylum System, develop practical cooperation among member states on asylum, and support member states experiencing particular pressure on their asylum systems. Malta lobbied hard to make it the first EU agency based on its shores.
    CIPG_20110619_NYT_MALTA__MG_9786.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - JUNE 19: (L-R) EASO (European Asylum Support Office) Management Board Chairperson Stéphane Fratacci,  EASO Executive Director Robert Visser, Malta Home Affairs Minister Carm Misfud Bonnici, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Cecilia Malmstrom and Malta Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi attend the inauguration of EASO at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, on June 19, 2011. EASO, the European Asylum Support Office, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and European Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström at the Upper Barrakka Gardens,Valletta.<br />
The EASO is a regulatory agency set up to improve the implementation of the Common European Asylum System, develop practical cooperation among member states on asylum, and support member states experiencing particular pressure on their asylum systems. Malta lobbied hard to make it the first EU agency based on its shores.
    CIPG_20110619_NYT_MALTA__MG_0051.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - JUNE 19:  (L-R) Malta Home Affairs Minister Carm Misfud Bonnici, Malta Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, EASO Executive Director Robert Visser and EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Cecilia Malmstrom look at the EASO logo as it is unveiled at the EASO (European Asylum Support Office) inauguration at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, on June 19, 2011. EASO, the European Asylum Support Office, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and European Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström at the Upper Barrakka Gardens,Valletta.<br />
The EASO is a regulatory agency set up to improve the implementation of the Common European Asylum System, develop practical cooperation among member states on asylum, and support member states experiencing particular pressure on their asylum systems. Malta lobbied hard to make it the first EU agency based on its shores.
    CIPG_20110619_NYT_MALTA__MG_0046.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - JUNE 19:  (R-L) EASO Executive Director Robert Visser, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Cecilia Malmstrom and Malta Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi attend the EASO (European Asylum Support Office) inauguration at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, on June 19, 2011. EASO, the European Asylum Support Office, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and European Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström at the Upper Barrakka Gardens,Valletta.<br />
The EASO is a regulatory agency set up to improve the implementation of the Common European Asylum System, develop practical cooperation among member states on asylum, and support member states experiencing particular pressure on their asylum systems. Malta lobbied hard to make it the first EU agency based on its shores.
    CIPG_20110619_NYT_MALTA__MG_0003.jpg
  • SALERNO, ITALY - 11 MAY 2020: Pallets of bean cans are seen here at the Banco Alimentare, a food bank in Salerno, Italy, on May 11th 2020.<br />
<br />
Before the coronavirus outbreak, Banco Alimentare distributed food to around 1.5 million people, a number that has gone up by roughly 40% in just over two month. The food bank can’t keep up with the new requests, particularly in Italy’s traditionally poorer southern regions such as Campania, of which Naples is the capital. The food, a mix of donations and purchases made with EU funds, is distributed through local charities that prepare shopping baskets and ready-to-eat meals for those in need.  <br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift themselves out of it – even once the pandemic is over. Italy, more than its Western European neighbors, is ill-prepared to deal with a crisis of this magnitude. Its big problem is that its economy never really recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, leaving families poorer and the government much more indebted today than it was then.<br />
<br />
CREDIT: Gianni Cipriano for The Wall Street Journal<br />
<br />
SLUG: ITPOOR<br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lif
    CIPG_20200511_WSJ_NewPoor_7M305559.jpg
  • SALERNO, ITALY - 11 MAY 2020: A worker lifts cases of bean cans at the Banco Alimentare, a food bank in Salerno, Italy, on May 11th 2020.<br />
<br />
Before the coronavirus outbreak, Banco Alimentare distributed food to around 1.5 million people, a number that has gone up by roughly 40% in just over two month. The food bank can’t keep up with the new requests, particularly in Italy’s traditionally poorer southern regions such as Campania, of which Naples is the capital. The food, a mix of donations and purchases made with EU funds, is distributed through local charities that prepare shopping baskets and ready-to-eat meals for those in need.  <br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift themselves out of it – even once the pandemic is over. Italy, more than its Western European neighbors, is ill-prepared to deal with a crisis of this magnitude. Its big problem is that its economy never really recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, leaving families poorer and the government much more indebted today than it was then.<br />
<br />
CREDIT: Gianni Cipriano for The Wall Street Journal<br />
<br />
SLUG: ITPOOR<br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift
    CIPG_20200511_WSJ_NewPoor_7M305377.jpg
  • SALERNO, ITALY - 11 MAY 2020: Pallets of bean cans are seen here at the Banco Alimentare, a food bank in Salerno, Italy, on May 11th 2020.<br />
<br />
Before the coronavirus outbreak, Banco Alimentare distributed food to around 1.5 million people, a number that has gone up by roughly 40% in just over two month. The food bank can’t keep up with the new requests, particularly in Italy’s traditionally poorer southern regions such as Campania, of which Naples is the capital. The food, a mix of donations and purchases made with EU funds, is distributed through local charities that prepare shopping baskets and ready-to-eat meals for those in need.  <br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift themselves out of it – even once the pandemic is over. Italy, more than its Western European neighbors, is ill-prepared to deal with a crisis of this magnitude. Its big problem is that its economy never really recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, leaving families poorer and the government much more indebted today than it was then.<br />
<br />
CREDIT: Gianni Cipriano for The Wall Street Journal<br />
<br />
SLUG: ITPOOR<br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lif
    CIPG_20200511_WSJ_NewPoor_7M305559.jpg
  • VALLETTA, MALTA - JUNE 19: Malta Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi gives a speech at the EASO (European Asylum Support Office) inauguration at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta, on June 19, 2011. EASO, the European Asylum Support Office, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and European Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmström at the Upper Barrakka Gardens,Valletta.<br />
The EASO is a regulatory agency set up to improve the implementation of the Common European Asylum System, develop practical cooperation among member states on asylum, and support member states experiencing particular pressure on their asylum systems. Malta lobbied hard to make it the first EU agency based on its shores.
    CIPG_20110619_NYT_MALTA__MG_9949.jpg
  • SALERNO, ITALY - 11 MAY 2020:  Roberto Tuorto, who runs the operations of Banco Alimentare -   Italy’s largest food bank - in the Campania region, walks by pallets of food in Salerno, Italy, on May 11th 2020.<br />
<br />
Before the coronavirus outbreak, Banco Alimentare distributed food to around 1.5 million people, a number that has gone up by roughly 40% in just over two month. The food bank can’t keep up with the new requests, particularly in Italy’s traditionally poorer southern regions such as Campania, of which Naples is the capital. The food, a mix of donations and purchases made with EU funds, is distributed through local charities that prepare shopping baskets and ready-to-eat meals for those in need.  <br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift themselves out of it – even once the pandemic is over. Italy, more than its Western European neighbors, is ill-prepared to deal with a crisis of this magnitude. Its big problem is that its economy never really recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, leaving families poorer and the government much more indebted today than it was then.<br />
<br />
CREDIT: Gianni Cipriano for The Wall Street Journal<br />
<br />
SLUG: ITPOOR<br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that
    CIPG_20200511_WSJ_NewPoor_7M305620.jpg
  • SALERNO, ITALY - 11 MAY 2020:  Pallets of food that will be donated to needy families is seen here in the Banco Alimentare, a food bank in Salerno, Italy, on May 11th 2020.<br />
<br />
Before the coronavirus outbreak, Banco Alimentare distributed food to around 1.5 million people, a number that has gone up by roughly 40% in just over two month. The food bank can’t keep up with the new requests, particularly in Italy’s traditionally poorer southern regions such as Campania, of which Naples is the capital. The food, a mix of donations and purchases made with EU funds, is distributed through local charities that prepare shopping baskets and ready-to-eat meals for those in need.  <br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift themselves out of it – even once the pandemic is over. Italy, more than its Western European neighbors, is ill-prepared to deal with a crisis of this magnitude. Its big problem is that its economy never really recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, leaving families poorer and the government much more indebted today than it was then.<br />
<br />
CREDIT: Gianni Cipriano for The Wall Street Journal<br />
<br />
SLUG: ITPOOR<br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged int
    CIPG_20200511_WSJ_NewPoor_7M305644.jpg
  • SALERNO, ITALY - 11 MAY 2020: A worker fills a box with food that will be distibuted to a needy family, here at the Banco Alimentare, a food bank in Salerno, Italy, on May 11th 2020.<br />
<br />
Before the coronavirus outbreak, Banco Alimentare distributed food to around 1.5 million people, a number that has gone up by roughly 40% in just over two month. The food bank can’t keep up with the new requests, particularly in Italy’s traditionally poorer southern regions such as Campania, of which Naples is the capital. The food, a mix of donations and purchases made with EU funds, is distributed through local charities that prepare shopping baskets and ready-to-eat meals for those in need.  <br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift themselves out of it – even once the pandemic is over. Italy, more than its Western European neighbors, is ill-prepared to deal with a crisis of this magnitude. Its big problem is that its economy never really recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, leaving families poorer and the government much more indebted today than it was then.<br />
<br />
CREDIT: Gianni Cipriano for The Wall Street Journal<br />
<br />
SLUG: ITPOOR<br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly p
    CIPG_20200511_WSJ_NewPoor_7M305512.jpg
  • SALERNO, ITALY - 11 MAY 2020: A worker fills a box with food that will be distibuted to a needy family, here at the Banco Alimentare, a food bank in Salerno, Italy, on May 11th 2020.<br />
<br />
Before the coronavirus outbreak, Banco Alimentare distributed food to around 1.5 million people, a number that has gone up by roughly 40% in just over two month. The food bank can’t keep up with the new requests, particularly in Italy’s traditionally poorer southern regions such as Campania, of which Naples is the capital. The food, a mix of donations and purchases made with EU funds, is distributed through local charities that prepare shopping baskets and ready-to-eat meals for those in need.  <br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift themselves out of it – even once the pandemic is over. Italy, more than its Western European neighbors, is ill-prepared to deal with a crisis of this magnitude. Its big problem is that its economy never really recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, leaving families poorer and the government much more indebted today than it was then.<br />
<br />
CREDIT: Gianni Cipriano for The Wall Street Journal<br />
<br />
SLUG: ITPOOR<br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly p
    CIPG_20200511_WSJ_NewPoor_7M305493.jpg
  • SALERNO, ITALY - 11 MAY 2020: A worker lifts cases of bean cans at the Banco Alimentare, a food bank in Salerno, Italy, on May 11th 2020.<br />
<br />
Before the coronavirus outbreak, Banco Alimentare distributed food to around 1.5 million people, a number that has gone up by roughly 40% in just over two month. The food bank can’t keep up with the new requests, particularly in Italy’s traditionally poorer southern regions such as Campania, of which Naples is the capital. The food, a mix of donations and purchases made with EU funds, is distributed through local charities that prepare shopping baskets and ready-to-eat meals for those in need.  <br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift themselves out of it – even once the pandemic is over. Italy, more than its Western European neighbors, is ill-prepared to deal with a crisis of this magnitude. Its big problem is that its economy never really recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, leaving families poorer and the government much more indebted today than it was then.<br />
<br />
CREDIT: Gianni Cipriano for The Wall Street Journal<br />
<br />
SLUG: ITPOOR<br />
<br />
The coronavirus pandemic has precipitated one of the worst economic downturns in generations across the world. But few major economies are likely to suffer as much as Italy’s, or take longer to recover.<br />
The health emergency has already left hundreds of thousands of Italians unable to pay for their own food for the first time. Experts warn that the poverty crisis is only just beginning, and that many of those who abruptly plunged into poverty may never be able to lift
    CIPG_20200511_WSJ_NewPoor_7M305366.jpg
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