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Italy

The EU and the US concerned following reports that Italy is close to signing up to China’s Belt and Road initiative

cde.news desk · 1 min read
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epa02826160 The Chinese flag flies in the center, next to the next host of FINA world championships in 2013 Spain (L) and the last host Italy (R) who hels the championships in 2009, during the opening ceremony of the 14th FINA World Swimming Championships, in Shanghai, China, 16 July 2011. Athletes from 181 nations are contesting for medals in the competition, the last big international swimming event leading up to the 2012 London Olympic Games, comprises swimming, diving, synchronised swimming and water polo. EPA/BARBARA WALTON

 

The European Commission stressed the need for EU States to stay united following reports that Italy is close to signing up to China’s huge Belt and Road infrastructure initiative.

A similar appeal was made by the United States directed to the Rome government. The United States is reportedly concerned about Italy’s involvement in the initiative

If Italy does sign-up, it will be the first G7 country to do so.

The initiative features a series of Beijing-funded major port, rail and road projects to better connect China to Europe, Africa and Asia for a modern version of the fabled Silk Road.

In a reaction to the above appeals, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang said that Italy knows where its interests are and it can conduct independent policies”.

Industry Ministry Undersecretary Michele Geraci said that it was not certain that Italy would sign up to the initiative, adding that he had no news of the US being irritated with Italy over this issue.

Via La Repubblica

Filed under ChinaEU AffairsEU CommissionEuro ZoneEurope ExplainedEuropean CommissionItaly
Topics Belt and RoadChinaEUItalyLu KangMichele Geraci

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