Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is on an official visit to China this week, aiming to reset relations between the two countries. Her trip comes amidst concerns over a potential trade war with the European Union and a continued interest in attracting Chinese investment in sectors like auto manufacturing. Meloni met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Sunday, followed by a forum with Italian and Chinese business leaders. This five-day visit marks a significant step in navigating the complex relationship between Italy and China, especially after Italy’s decision to withdraw from China’s Belt and Road Initiative earlier this year.
Italy’s decision to join the Belt and Road Initiative in 2019 had been seen as a political win for China, providing it access to Western Europe and symbolizing its growing global influence. However, Italy claims the anticipated economic benefits failed to materialize, leading to friction with other Western European governments and the United States.
Despite the withdrawal, Italy remains eager to cultivate strong economic ties with China. This is evidenced by Stellantis, a major automaker encompassing Italy’s Fiat, forming a joint venture with Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle startup, to begin selling EVs in Europe. Electric vehicles have become a symbol of rising tensions between China and the EU, with the EU imposing provisional tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles in early July. Negotiations are ongoing to resolve this issue by early November.
Adding to the complexity, China has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into European pork exports, following the EU’s announcement of tariffs on Chinese EVs. This further underscores the delicate balance between economic interests and political concerns.
Meloni’s visit to China aims to address these issues and foster a more constructive relationship. Her previous meeting with Li Qiang during the G20 summit in New Delhi last September provides a foundation for discussions. The outcome of this trip will be closely watched, as it holds implications for the future of relations between Italy, China, and the European Union.
