In a significant move to bolster international cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Beijing on Monday. The leaders emphasized the importance of upholding and promoting the Silk Road spirit, which symbolizes peace, cooperation, openness, and mutual benefit.
\"The Silk Road spirit of peace and cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning and mutual benefit is a shared treasure of China and Italy,\" Xi remarked during their meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.
Highlighting the historical connection, Xi noted that China and Italy lie at opposite ends of the ancient Silk Road, fostering friendly exchanges that have significantly contributed to the dialogue between Eastern and Western civilizations. He stressed that in today’s rapidly changing global landscape, unity and connectivity are essential for collective progress.
Prime Minister Meloni echoed these sentiments, expressing Italy's commitment to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership with China. She acknowledged China's pivotal role in addressing global challenges and reiterated Italy's dedication to the one-China policy. Meloni also highlighted Italy's focus on expanding bilateral cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, investment, electric vehicles (EVs), and artificial intelligence (AI).
The two nations pledged to enhance collaboration in traditional sectors like trade and manufacturing, while also exploring emerging fields like EVs and AI. Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining open global supply chains to achieve win-win development.
Committing to their shared vision, China and Italy unveiled a joint action plan to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership from 2024 to 2027. This plan aims to deepen economic ties, promote technological innovation, and enhance people-to-people exchanges, paving the way for sustained mutual growth and stability.
Reference(s):
President Xi: China, Italy should uphold and promote Silk Road spirit
cgtn.com
