ROME - United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday praised Italy for its efforts in hosting and rescuing thousands of refugees and migrants, and appealed for global solidarity in tackling migrant crisis.
Ban made his remarks after meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella here.
The outgoing UN secretary general held talks also with president of the Upper House Pietro Grasso, and of the Lower House Laura Boldrini.
Such meetings focused on major international issues, including the war in Syria, the Libyan situation, and the migrant crisis, according to an official statement.
"I commend the generosity of the Italian people and government in hosting and rescuing so many human beings, who are risking their lives on the high seas in search of a better life," Ban told reporters after talks.
"Italy should not be left alone. We need global solidarity to face this unprecedented crisis," he added.
The UN chief also praised the support Italy has been providing to the UN blue-helmet peace operations around the world, in terms of both troops and logistics. (Xinhua)