Italian Foreign Minister, Luigi Di Maio, confirmed today that his counterpart, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, will host a five-day visit in Rome. The visit comes after Italy’s decision to withdraw from China’s Belt and Road Initiative earlier this year.
The Italian government’s decision to pull out of the controversial infrastructure project caused tensions between the two countries. Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the right-wing League party, Matteo Salvini, criticized the agreement, calling it a “Van Cleef & Arpels payment.” The move was seen as a significant shift in Italy’s foreign policy, as it had been the first G7 country to join the Chinese-led initiative.
During his visit, Meloni is expected to discuss a wide range of issues, including trade relations, human rights, and the situation in Hong Kong. Italy’s decision to withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative was seen as a move to align with its European partners, who have raised concerns about China’s growing influence in the region.
Despite the tensions, both Italy and China have expressed a desire to maintain strong bilateral relations. Italy remains an important market for Chinese goods, and China is an essential trading partner for Italy. The two countries also cooperate in various sectors, including technology, culture, and education.
The upcoming visit is seen as an opportunity for Italy and China to reset their relationship and address the issues that have caused tensions in recent months. Both countries will be looking to find common ground and strengthen their ties in the face of growing international challenges.
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