Could Giuseppe Conte’s exit be the end of Italy’s closer ties with China?
- Italian prime minister fostered warmer relations with Beijing but his resignation could give a boost to the League party led by China critic Matteo Salvini
The resignation of Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte spells uncertainty for the country’s warmer ties with China.
Conte, a staunch defender of closer relations with Beijing during his 14 months in office, resigned on Tuesday amid a stand-off with League party leader and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, a vocal critic of China.
Tensions had been brewing between the ruling coalition government of the Five-Star Movement, the League and Conte, an independent serving as prime minister.
Salvini had suggested earlier this month that Italy hold new elections, and moved for a vote of no confidence against Conte. Addressing parliament on Tuesday, Conte said Salvini was “irresponsible to initiate a government crisis”, and announced his intention to resign.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella accepted Conte’s resignation. If a new government cannot be formed, snap elections will be held.
Relations between China and Italy have improved under Conte, with Italy signing a memorandum to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative despite warnings from the United States.