BEIJING: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in China with the goal of enhancing economic cooperation and addressing trade imbalances. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Meloni highlighted her mission to strengthen ties with the world’s second-largest economy following Italy's departure from China’s Belt and Road Initiative last year.
This visit marks Meloni's first trip to China and comes as part of Italy's effort to realign its economic relationships. She underscored that the euro zone’s third-largest economy is eager to overcome barriers hindering Italian products from entering the Chinese market.
"Currently, Italian investments in China are approximately three times greater than Chinese investments in Italy," Meloni remarked. "We are committed to working on removing obstacles to better facilitate our products' access to the Chinese market."
Meloni's visit is also seen as a strategic move, especially considering Italy’s influential role in the European Union. Her discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping centered on balancing trade relations, which is crucial amid ongoing EU discussions about potential tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
Despite exiting the Belt and Road Initiative last year under pressure from the U.S., Italy is focused on forging a stronger trade relationship with China. Meloni emphasized the need for a more balanced economic partnership during her talks in Beijing.
During a Monday meeting at Beijing's Diaoyutai State Guest House, Meloni informed Xi Jinping that Italy holds a significant position in China's relationship with the European Union. She expressed a desire for trade relations that are "as balanced as possible."
In October, EU member states will vote on whether to impose additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Italy is among the countries expected to support this measure.
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