Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, on November 22, 2025. During the meeting, Premier Li welcomed increased participation from Italian companies in the Chinese market and called on Italy to ensure a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese investors operating in Italy. This bilateral dialogue, held on the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, focused on advancing the implementation of their joint 2024–2027 three-year action plan.
Premier Li emphasized China’s continued willingness to promote two-way openness with Italy, strengthen connectivity in markets and industries, and pursue balanced development of bilateral trade. He urged both sides to build on traditional areas of strength while expanding cooperation into emerging industries, including science and technology. Italy, despite having supported the European Commission’s 2024 decision to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), continues to highlight the value of Chinese investment and collaboration in Europe, seeking to maintain strong bilateral economic ties.Prime Minister Meloni, in turn, stressed the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue and ensuring a level playing field for all companies operating in international markets. She also advocated for secure global supply chains, particularly regarding components critical for industrial production. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the G20, aiming to build broader consensus on global issues.
