Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrives in China for first official visit

The prime minister will seek to “revitalize bilateral relations in sectors of mutual interest,” an Italian official told Agence France-Presse, requesting anonymity.

The talks will focus on “major issues in the international arena, starting with the war in Ukraine,” the official added.

Before taking office, Meloni said joining the initiative – a cornerstone of Xi’s efforts to expand China’s influence abroad – was a “mistake.”

The non-binding memorandum of understanding between Italy and China included broad commitments on cooperation in the logistics, infrastructure, finance and environmental sectors.

But details were scarce and the lack of transparency fueled distrust among Italy’s allies.