Italian PM Giorgia Meloni Seeks to Strengthen Trade Ties with China

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited China to enhance trade cooperation and rebalance economic ties. Her trip follows Italy's exit from the Belt and Road initiative, yet she emphasized the importance of removing trade barriers and fostering balanced investments. Meloni's visit could also influence EU discussions on tariffs for Chinese electric vehicles.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited China in an effort to boost trade cooperation with the world's second-largest economy and reset bilateral ties. This marks her first visit as prime minister after Italy exited China's Belt and Road initiative last year. Meloni aims to rebalance economic relations between the two countries.

'Today, Italian investment in China is about three times as much as Chinese investment in Italy,' Meloni stated, emphasizing the need to remove barriers for Italian products in China. Since taking office in 2022, her right-wing government has sought to strengthen cooperation and achieve balanced trade with Beijing.

Italy's strategic importance to China is underscored by its potential moderating influence within the European Union. As the EU prepares to vote on new tariffs for Chinese electric vehicles, Italy's stance will be crucial. Despite exiting the Belt and Road scheme, Rome continues to seek robust trade ties with China's $18.6 trillion economy. Meloni confirmed that electric mobility and industrial cooperation are key topics during her discussions with Chinese officials.

(With inputs from agencies.)