Italian navy ship drops off 49 migrants in Albania despite previous court rejections - Giorgia Meloni’s Italian government is looking to relocate migrants to Albania in a contentious plan

An Italian navy ship has arrived in Albania with 49 migrants intercepted in international waters for processing of their asylum applications at special Albanian centers.

What made the gift even more special was that the lightweight scarf was designed by an Italian designer who had relocated to Albania, showcasing the strong cultural ties between the two nations.

New legislation passed in January requires Italian appeals courts to approve the detention of asylum seekers rather than special immigration services.

Italy says it is transferring 49 migrants picked up in the Mediterranean to new processing centers in Albania, in the third such attempt facing hurdles by courts.

Dozens of migrants arrived in Albania early on Tuesday, days after Italy resumed the transfer of asylum seekers to its maritime neighbour in a controversial programme that is under judicial review.

Tuesday's boat was the first to arrive in Albania following a monthslong pause. The European Court of Justice is set to review the scheme in February.

An Italian navy ship has arrived in Albania with 49 migrants intercepted in international waters for processing of their asylum applications at special Albanian centers

An Italian military ship docked Tuesday in the Albanian port of Shëngjin with 49 migrants intercepted at sea while trying to reach Italy, and will be interned in detention and expulsion centers built in Albania by the far-right government of Giorgia Meloni.

Despite the Italian migrant centres in Albania officially opening in October, the facilities have lain empty over a legal dispute. Migrants are now once again being sent there, though the project remains a source of controversy as well as hope for local communities.