Italy’s Mattei Plan aims to reshape geopolitical ties with Libya

Italy is focusing on enhancing its geopolitical stature through energy partnerships, particularly with Libya. The Mattei Plan, launched as Italy's strategy for Africa, aims to increase hydrocarbon ties between the two countries. Under this plan, Italy has committed €5.5 billion for development initiatives, which includes financing from the Italian Climate Fund and existing development cooperation funds. The strategy intends to address Italy's diminished influence in the Mediterranean, which has been evident in the stifled interventions of previous governments. Furthermore, the Mattei Plan seeks to alleviate migration pressures by positioning Italy as a 'gatekeeper' in the European migratory crisis. Despite its ambitious goals, the Mattei Plan has faced criticism regarding its potential effectiveness. The incorporation of Libya is crucial, considering its historical significance to Italy's foreign relations. However, Libya was initially excluded from the plan's strategies, which some view as a miscalculation. Instead, the plan has been expanded to include other North African states and countries in sub-Saharan Africa, indicating a broadening of Italy's diplomatic approach. Italy's energy company, ENI, continues to play a pivotal role in fostering positive relations with North African regimes, reflecting Mattei's legacy. A crucial aspect of the Mattei Plan is its anticipated impact on energy security and the migrant situation in Europe. Meloni’s administration hopes that by improving development cooperation, Italy can manage migration flows more effectively. However, experts now suggest that these methods may not yield the intended results, calling into question the viability of the plan in the absence of a more coordinated European framework. Furthermore, enhanced collaboration in renewable energy could be beneficial as it would not only address Libya's power shortages but also reinforce Italy’s standing in the region. In summary, while the Mattei Plan aims to solidify Italy's geopolitical influence by fostering improved relations with Libya and expanding into renewable energy initiatives, the realities of migration and regional dynamics present significant challenges. The success of this ambitious plan will heavily rely on Italy's ability to navigate these complexities and leverage its historical connections effectively.