Italian President Sergio Mattarella’s six-day state visit to the Chinese mainland marks a significant step towards strengthening the ties between Italy and China. Building on Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit just four months ago, this visit emphasizes the importance of pragmatic cooperation between the two nations in a world fraught with various tensions.
In an international environment shaken by global challenges, Italy and the European Union recognize their mutual need for strong relations with China, and vice versa. This visit symbolizes a shared commitment to enhanced bilateral cooperation, despite pressures from other quarters urging caution in engaging with China.
The timing of President Mattarella’s visit is notable, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership and the 700th anniversary of the death of Marco Polo, the renowned Italian explorer who journeyed to China along the ancient Silk Road. These anniversaries highlight the long-standing historical and cultural connections between the two countries.
In practical terms, President Mattarella’s visit aims to promote cooperation in various fields, from culture and education to economic collaboration. The focus is on facilitating people-to-people exchanges and fostering mutual understanding that can lead to practical partnerships in multiple sectors.
The enduring friendship between China and Italy is characterized by a rich history of cultural exchanges, which have laid the foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation. Observers and business leaders anticipate that the recent high-level visits will open new avenues for collaboration and strengthen ties in the face of global challenges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
