Meloni Takes Olive Branch to China After BRI Exit
From 27 to 31 July, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni undertook a five-day visit to China following an invitation from Chinese Premier LI Qiang. Italy was the only #G7 country to the #BRI in 2019, but exited the program in 2023, citing ‘lower than expected benefits and growing friction with US and other Western allies.’
Following Italy’s exit from #BRI, the Italy-China relationship wallowed in a strained state. Therefore, this official visit is seen by many observers as an opportunity to reset the ties and to turn over a new leaf on Italy-China ties.
On Sunday 28 July 2024, Italian PM co-chaired with Premier LI Qiang the opening session of the 7th Italy-China Business Forum. Then, on Monday, she met with Chinese President XI Jinping at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse. She also met with the Shanghai City CPC leadership.
During the meeting with Xi, Meloni qualified China as ‘an important interlocutor on global dynamics’. On the other hand, Xi expressed the wish for the bilateral relationship to ‘rebound into a new era.’
“China and Italy should uphold the spirit of the Silk Road … so that the bridge of communication between East and West through it can rebound into a new era.”
Chinese President XI Jinping
In order to take advantage of certain mutually beneficial opportunities, the two countries agreed and signed a ‘Three-Year Action Plan‘. The scope of bilateral cooperation included shipbuilding, aerospace, new energy and #AI. As a matter of fact, during the Italy-China Business Forum, both sides inked six new agreements focusing on #EV and renewable energy with high future potential.
It is worth highlighting that Italy is holding the rotating presidency of the #G7 during 2024. Thus, some analysts believe that Meloni possesses an ‘indisputable charm’ and could perhaps be cast in the role of the ‘mediator between East and West.’
