Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to embark on an official visit to China from July 27 to 31, following an invitation from Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The announcement, made by the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday, signals a significant diplomatic engagement between the two nations, with meetings scheduled between Meloni and key Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and top legislator Zhao Leji.
According to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, the visit underscores the longstanding and fruitful relationship between China and Italy, both ancient civilizations and comprehensive strategic partners. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership, a milestone that both nations aim to celebrate by enhancing mutual cooperation. Mao emphasized that a sound and stable China-Italy relationship benefits both countries and contributes to global peace, stability, and prosperity.
This visit is particularly noteworthy as it follows Italy’s recent withdrawal from the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Meloni’s trip to China, her first since taking office, is viewed as an effort to address and mitigate any residual misunderstandings stemming from this withdrawal. Zhao Junjie, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences’ Institute of European Studies, stated that Italy’s decision to leave the BRI was not indicative of a reluctance to engage with China, but rather a response to significant pressure from the US and other Western powers.
Observers have highlighted Italy’s current economic challenges, including a technical recession, high national debt, and deficits. Amidst these issues, Italy has faced Western pressure to distance itself from China without receiving substantial support in return. Zhao Junjie pointed out that far-right political figures like Meloni often revert to pragmatic approaches once in power, seeking the greatest benefit for their country. Meloni’s visit to China can be seen as an attempt to balance Italy’s diplomatic relations between China, the US, and the EU.
The visit aims to strengthen practical cooperation and communication between China and Italy. Italian Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy Adolfo Urso’s recent visit to China in early July laid the groundwork for Meloni’s trip. Urso emphasized the importance of China as a market for Italian companies and highlighted the strategic partnership between the two nations, particularly in green technology, electric vehicles, and public transportation. His statements reflect Italy’s strong interest in investing in China’s renewable energy sector and restarting bilateral economic and trade relations.
Meloni’s visit is anticipated to set a precedent in Europe, demonstrating the benefits of enhancing friendship and cooperation with China. Analysts suggest that this move could inspire other European countries to reconsider their stance on decoupling from China. Practical cooperation agreements and mutual understanding are expected to be key outcomes of the visit, potentially marking a new phase in China-Italy relations.
As the world watches this high-profile diplomatic engagement, the outcomes of Meloni’s visit to China could have broader implications for international relations. The strengthening of China-Italy ties may influence the geopolitical landscape, especially in the context of ongoing global tensions and economic challenges. The visit offers an opportunity for both nations to reaffirm their commitment to mutual growth and cooperation, setting the stage for a more interconnected and collaborative future.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s upcoming visit to China represents a critical juncture in China-Italy relations. Amidst economic challenges and geopolitical pressures, this diplomatic engagement aims to reinforce the strategic partnership between the two nations. As both countries celebrate the 20th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic partnership, Meloni’s visit could pave the way for deeper cooperation, mutual understanding, and a more stable and prosperous global community.
