Italian PM Giorgia Meloni Ventures to China to Boost Trade Ties

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni plans to visit China from July 26-31 to enhance trade relations. She aims to strengthen Italy's sluggish economic growth through Chinese investments. Meloni will meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang while various Italian companies participate in an Italy-China Business Forum. The visit also addresses geopolitical concerns.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will visit China from July 26-31 on her first official trip there since assuming office, as part of efforts to boost trade between the two countries, an informed source told Reuters.

Meloni, who considers Chinese investment crucial to revitalizing Italy's sluggish economic growth, is slated to engage with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. Notable Italian companies such as tyre-maker Pirelli, energy conglomerate ENI, and luxury fashion house Dolce & Gabbana are expected to attend the Italy-China Business Forum in Beijing.

Italy, the only G7 nation to have joined the Belt and Road Initiative in 2019, exited the project last year under pressure from the United States over concerns about China's expanding economic influence. Bilateral trade agreements reflecting this shift are anticipated during Meloni's visit.

(With inputs from agencies.)