Jakič expressed hope the EU would launch more campaigns such as the Mare Nostrum, an humanitarian operation led by the Italian navy, while the PM was proud of Slovenia's contribution.

The EU apparently does not feel that the problem of refugees in this part of Europe a problem of the entire continent "and is sticking its head in the sand", Jakič told the STA during the visit.

He expects that the EU will find the courage and additional funds for more such operations. This concrete operation implies that migration policy concerns only one country, but that is not true, said Jakič, adding that this was the reason why Slovenia joined.

He said that Slovenia's participation was symbolic and that the Triglav was the biggest of the smallest boats taking part. "The biggest among Italy's smallest," Jakič said of Slovenia's largest navy vessel.

Bratušek expressed similar views, saying Slovenia's participation in the Mare Nostrum operation was a great honour and provided precious experience for the Slovenian navy.

Jakič and Bratušek also met today Italy's Defence Minister Mario Mauro and visited the Sigonella military base in Augusta, Sicily and the centre for immigrants, which currently houses some 200 migrants from Niger, Gambia, Mali, Senegal and Pakistan.

Mauro said Slovenia's gesture, having above all symbolic value, served as a reminder to Europe that these shores and sea were also the border of Europe.

Meanwhile, the Slovenian delegation took the opportunity to express the wish for a suitable memorial at the Fascist concentration camp Visco, NE Italy, where many Slovenians lost their lives.

The Slovenian officials also urged the Italian side to consider minority rights in the planned overhaul of the election legislation in Italy.

The Triglav was deployed to Sicily on 15 December and is expected to conclude the mission on 31 January. Apart from the 39-member crew, two police officers and medical staff are also with the Triglav.

Mare Nostrum was launched in mid-October after nearly 400 refugees died in two shipwrecks off the coast of Lampedusa island. Since the beginning of the operation, the Italian navy has rescued more than 7,600 migrants.