Editorial | China ties will be a test for Italy’s new leader
- Giorgia Meloni’s success at the polls have stoked fears that relations with Beijing could deteriorate, but she has been described as being sensible and pragmatic, traits that can serve her well on the diplomatic stage
Italy’s signing of a memorandum in support of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in 2019 appeared to signal a new era of closer ties.
The move, by Italy’s then prime minister Giuseppe Conte, was intended to help revitalise his country’s economy, but was viewed with concern by the United States and European Union who feared this Group of Seven member was moving within Beijing’s ambit.
China and Italy agreed to boost collaboration further when marking the 50th anniversary of ties in 2020.
But, by then, the world had changed. The pandemic struck, hitting Italy hard. Conte was replaced in early 2021.
Now, another new government is to be formed. A far-right coalition won an election on September 25. The result has sparked concerns about growing support for ultra-conservative parties in Europe. It also raises doubts about the Sino-Italian relationship.