Italy’s decision to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) four years ago was criticized by Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, who described it as “improvised and atrocious” and claimed that it did not significantly boost exports. Italy is the only major Western country to have joined the BRI, and the current administration is considering how to withdraw from the agreement. The BRI aims to connect China with Asia, Europe, and beyond through extensive infrastructure projects, but critics argue that it serves as a means for China to expand its geopolitical and economic influence.

Crosetto stated in an interview with Corriere della Sera that joining the BRI was a hasty decision that resulted in a significant increase in China’s exports to Italy, without a corresponding increase in Italian exports to China. He emphasized the challenge of disengaging from the BRI without damaging relations with Beijing, acknowledging that China is both a competitor and a partner.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, after a meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden, announced that her government has until December to make a decision on the BRI. She also revealed plans to travel to Beijing soon. In an interview with TG5, Meloni highlighted the paradox of Italy’s participation in the BRI, as it is not the G7 country with the strongest trading ties to China. She emphasized that strong relations and trading partnerships can exist outside of the BRI.

The article was reported by Alvise Armellini and edited by David Evans, adhering to the Thomson RushHourDaily Trust Principles.

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