Meloni Vows to Strengthen Italian-Chinese Cooperation with New Action Plan

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced a three-year action plan to enhance cooperation with China during her first official visit to Beijing. The visit aims to mend trade relations after Italy exited China's Belt and Road initiative, with discussions focusing on mutual economic interests and trade imbalance issues.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced a significant shift in Italy's foreign relations, vowing to enhance cooperation with China through a newly signed three-year action plan. This announcement came during her inaugural official visit to Beijing since assuming office, according to Italian news agency ANSA.

Meloni detailed her ambitions during a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, underscoring Rome's intent to bolster trade ties following Italy's departure from President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road infrastructure initiative last year. Her five-day visit signifies a new chapter in bilateral relations, with the action plan exploring innovative forms of collaboration.

The forum saw participation from major Italian companies, including Pirelli, ENI, and Leonardo, illustrating the mutual interest in balancing commercial exchanges. While addressing concerns about China's economic practices and support for Russia, Meloni emphasized the need for a 'win-win mentality' and dynamic, sustainable cooperation.