The visit follows preparatory discussions led by Italy’s Minister for Business, Adolfo Urso, who met with Chinese officials to lay the groundwork for future cooperation. Urso's meetings in Beijing focused on green technology, electric mobility, intellectual property agreements, and collaboration among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These discussions are seen as crucial for setting the stage for Meloni’s high-level talks with Chinese counterparts.
Meloni emphasized that Italy can maintain robust economic relations with China without being part of the BRI. During her discussions, she highlighted sectors such as automotive, green technology, and industrial design as key areas for potential Chinese investment in Italy. These sectors are particularly appealing to Chinese investors due to Italy’s advanced capabilities in these fields.
A significant aspect of the visit is Italy’s strategic approach to balance its national interests with broader European Union trade policies. Italy has been cautious about Chinese involvement in its telecommunications infrastructure, notably 5G technology. While Chinese 5G hardware has been used, Italy has implemented measures to diversify suppliers and increase the share of European equipment to ensure national security.
Meloni’s visit also addresses the broader context of European trade relations with China. Italy’s exports to China lag behind those of other major European economies like Germany and France, even though these countries are not part of the BRI. Critics of Italy’s initial participation in the BRI argue that it did not significantly improve the trade deficit with China, as Chinese exports to Italy have increased more substantially than Italian exports to China over the past few years.
By focusing on strategic partnerships outside the BRI, Meloni aims to reposition Italy as a key player in the global economic landscape while ensuring that its national interests and security concerns are adequately addressed. This visit underscores Italy's intent to foster meaningful collaborations that benefit both nations, with an emphasis on innovation and sustainable growth.
The outcome of Meloni’s visit will likely shape the future trajectory of Italy-China relations, setting a precedent for how European countries can engage with China on equitable terms. As Italy navigates this complex diplomatic landscape, the focus remains on fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that supports Italy’s economic ambitions while aligning with its strategic priorities within the European Union framework.