'Italy in Frontex only if Libya takes part'

Italy will take part in the Frontex patrols to stem illegal immigration on condition that Libya also takes part, according to Italian Interior Minister Giuliano Amato.

Operation Nautilus II is scheduled to start on June 22 with the participation of Malta, Greece, France and Germany. Italy took part in last year's first mission, when Libya had refused to join the other states.

Speaking to The Times in Brussels, Mr Amato said that for Italy the issue was very clear.

"If Libya does not participate, the patrol will have little or no effect. The participation of Tripoli will make sure no boats leave Libyan ports.

"We see Libya's participation as part and parcel of this project. We have already told the European Commission and the other EU member states about this".

Last week, EU Justice Commissioner Franco Frattini criticised his country for not committing itself to this year's patrols, saying he could not understand his government's position. Italy should have a direct interest in taking part, he had said.

Minister Amato said: "We (Italy) together with Malta have been asking the Commission and Frontex to organise these missions together with Libya.

"Until today, we still don't know what the position is. So we need clarifications on what is going on before we decide whether or not to participate."

Asked what Italy's position would be if Libya refused to take part, Mr Amato said: "Libya will participate... and we need to organise these missions with their participation in mind."