Italy is fearful that, without the cash, the country will be destabilised, unleashing a new wave of migrants towards Europe.
Tunisia's bailout talks with the IMF have been stalled for months, with the United States, amongst others, demanding far-reaching reforms from President Kais Saied to free up the cash.
However, Tajani has spoken to IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and urged her to show flexibility to stave off possible financial collapse. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is also"working the phones", one official said, warning that Italy faced an"invasion of migrants" in the coming months if Tunisia did not get the money.
"Uncontrolled irregular migration can only be reduced by improving the conditions of security and economic stability," Tajani said, adding that Italy was looking to boost training opportunities for Tunisians as an alternative to migration.
Of the arrivals this year to Italy, the top country of origin is Ivory Coast , followed by Guinea . The U.N. official said they had largely left from Tunisia. By comparison, 1,535 Tunisians had come to Italy so far this year.
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