China urges Italy to play constructive role in relations with Europe
- Foreign Minister Wang Yi tells his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani that Beijing does not want ‘third parties’ to get involved
- Last week Chinese President Xi Jinping invited Italy’s Prime Minister Georgia Meloni to visit the country after extending a similar offer to other EU leaders
China does not want any “third parties” to be involved in its relationship with Europe, Foreign Minister Wang Yi has told his Italian counterpart as both sides agreed to push forward a partnership on trade and technology.
“China always regards the European Union as a comprehensive strategic partner, supports the EU’s strategic autonomy, and wants to see a stable and prosperous Europe. China’s policy towards Europe remains stable and consistent, regardless of changes in the international situation,” Wang said, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.
“The China-Europe relationship is not directed at a third party, nor should it be subjected to a third party”.
Wang also called for stronger economic and technological cooperation, and the next joint meeting of the China-Italy government committee to be convened as soon as possible. It last met in 2020 to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
In an Italian foreign ministry statement, Tajani said he hoped for “rapid resumption of all channels of dialogue” between China and the EU, including that on human rights.