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Italy Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, recently visited China and vowed to “relaunch” bilateral relations.
China as an Important Interlocutor
Meloni emphasized that China is an “important interlocutor” in managing global tensions. Despite past differences, she recognizes the need for dialogue and cooperation with Beijing.
Three-Year Economic Cooperation Plan
During her visit, Meloni and Chinese Premier Li Qiang signed a three-year plan to strengthen economic cooperation. This signals a renewed commitment to collaboration between the two nations.
Italy Exiting the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Last year, Italy withdrew from President Xi Jinping’s signature BRI, a massive Chinese investment scheme aimed at promoting bilateral trade. Meloni’s decision was met with criticism but reflects her pro-Western foreign policy stance.
A Shift in Engagement
By visiting China as a partner rather than a mere participant, Meloni aims to reset Italy’s relationship. Her administration has also taken steps to block Chinese control of Italian companies and impose tariffs on Chinese imports.
Italy Trade and Relations
Despite past tensions, two-way trade between Italy and China reached €66.8 billion last year, making China Italy’s largest non-EU trading partner after the US.
In this evolving geopolitical landscape, Meloni’s efforts to recalibrate Italy’s ties with China demonstrate a nuanced approach to international relations and economic cooperation. The outcome of this “relaunch” will shape the future dynamics between these two influential nations.