British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, have affirmed their commitment to combating illegal migration through the development of “innovative partnerships” along migration routes, according to a statement from Sunak’s office. Both leaders share a common goal of reducing the influx of illegal migrants into their respective countries.

During a call on Friday, the leaders discussed collaborative efforts aimed at addressing issues related to people smuggling gangs and illegal arrivals. Meloni has previously reached an agreement with Albania, outlining plans for Italy to establish migrant processing centers on Albanian territory. Meanwhile, Sunak has proposed sending asylum seekers to Rwanda, though this plan remains entangled in legal disputes.

“The Prime Minister (Sunak) noted the passage of the Italy-Albania agreement, and leaders agreed to continue working closely together to develop innovative partnerships across Europe and with countries along the migration route,” stated the release from Sunak’s office on Friday.