"It is difficult to resolve this issue because we cannot draw the line between those who seek political asylum and social (economic) migrants. We can only do so if we are able to turn back the illegal migrants who leave their countries simply seeking a better life," Romano told Sputnik Italia. "But how can we turn back people fleeing from civil wars and unrest? So this problem is essentially unsolvable."
He also pointed out that restoring order in war-torn Libya would be a serious breakthrough in helping the migrants return to their countries of origin.
Mr. Romano also praised Russia’s offer to the EU to help deal with the crisis by passing a UN Security Council resolution, calling it a friendly and heartfelt gesture.
He also commented on a recent statement by Italy’s Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, who said that it is a mistake to try and "build Europe without Russia." According to Romano, Renzi merely said what the Italian government had been thinking for a very long time.
"While we definitely must not neglect our obligations to our allies, the Italian political class wants to restore relations with Russia," said Romano. "For political reasons, as many Italian politicians believe that Russia is essential to solving many of Europe's problems, and for economic reasons as well. And also for economic reasons, as the sanctions dealt a serious blow to many of Europe’s producers and sectors of industry."
