ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reportedly discussed Italy’s intention to withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) during a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the G20 summit, Italian media reported.
Italy plans to shift its focus towards revitalizing a strategic partnership agreement with China, which was initially signed in 2004 to promote economic cooperation.
Italy stands as the sole G7 nation to have joined the BRI, a global trade and infrastructure initiative inspired by the historic Silk Road connecting China with the Western world.
According to Corriere della Sera, the Italian Prime Minister conveyed her country’s decision to withdraw from the BRI during the meeting with Premier Li, who reportedly made a final attempt to persuade Italy to reconsider.
This move by Italy has been met with questions from its politicians regarding the value of the BRI agreement, which was initially signed by a previous administration in 2019. It has also strained relations with Western allies, who have expressed concerns about the expansion of Chinese influence.
Italian PM Clarifies Quitting BRI Not Under US Influence
Italian media reported that the government clarified to the Chinese counterparts that the decision was not influenced by the United States. Similar reports corroborating this stance have emerged in some Italian newspapers.
Italy is poised to assume the G7 presidency next year, and reshaping its relationship with China is seen as a way to appease its Western allies.
Prime Minister Meloni and Premier Li held discussions at the G20 summit in New Delhi, primarily focused on enhancing their bilateral relations, according to a statement from Meloni’s office. The statement also highlighted the upcoming 20th anniversary of Italy and China’s Global Strategic Partnership, set to be commemorated next year, with a commitment to furthering cooperation in various areas of mutual interest.
