Italy's Evolving Diplomacy: Navigating Geopolitics and Economic Interests in the BRI

Italy, a country renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, is not just a picturesque Mediterranean destination; it also holds significant geopolitical significance on the world stage. As the nation's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, prepares to visit the White House and meet with US President Joe Biden, the world watches with curiosity and anticipation. The meeting aims to address crucial topics of international interest, including Transatlantic cooperation with China, developments in North Africa, Italy's upcoming presidency of the G7 in 2024, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Amidst the global complexities, one aspect remains crystal clear – Italy's firm support for the US-NATO camp. The country has long been a fervent supporter of the US-led alliance, aligning itself closely with the Western bloc's geopolitical interests. Regardless of political transitions, Italy's foreign policy remains rooted in its commitment to the US-NATO camp.

Italy's active role as a stalwart defender of US hegemony is especially evident in its engagement in North Africa. The nation has been at the forefront of NATO's peacekeeping efforts, assuming a leading role in military interventions under the euphemism of "keeping the peace." This unwavering support for US-led endeavors showcases Italy's willingness to stand shoulder to shoulder with its allies and contribute to global security.

Moreover, as Italy gears up to assume the presidency of the G7 in 2024, it signifies its pivotal position within the group of seven leading industrialized nations. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that Italy's stance within the G7 has historically aligned with US policies. As such, substantive challenges to the US's dominant position within the group are unlikely.

The upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Meloni and President Biden represents an opportunity to reinforce these strong geopolitical ties and further solidify Italy's commitment to the US-NATO camp. However, it also raises questions about how Italy's steadfast alignment with the US will impact discussions on the pressing global issues that lay ahead.

Italy's BRI Involvement: A Delicate Balancing Act

As Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, prepares for a momentous meeting with US President Joe Biden, the world holds its breath, eager to witness how the country's involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) will unfold. Italy's entry into this ambitious Chinese-led infrastructure project was met with surprise and concern from the European Union and the United States, as it made Italy the first G7 nation to join the initiative back in March 2019.

The move marked a significant turning point in Italy's foreign policy and economic strategy. The memorandum of understanding signed by then Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte signified Italy's intent to embrace the BRI, a vast network of trade and infrastructure development connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. However, the decision also raised eyebrows, with skeptics questioning whether this alignment with China's vision would compromise Italy's long-standing geopolitical affiliations.

Italy's political landscape, characterized by frequent changes in prime ministers, added a layer of complexity to its BRI involvement. Despite its historical political fluctuations, Italy has maintained a notable US military presence within its borders, with seven military bases hosting troops from the army, navy, and air force. This unique blend of geopolitical dynamics raises questions about how Italy will navigate its participation in the BRI while simultaneously adhering to its commitments with the US-NATO camp.

In recent months, Italy has shown signs of aligning with US efforts to contain China's influence in the region. The nation has deepened its relations with Taiwan, Japan, and India, engaging in defense-related cooperation and actively participating in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad). Rome dispatched the multi-role patrol vessel Francesco Morosini to East Asia, marking the beginning of a five-month mission aimed at fostering synergies and training experiences with the Quad. Furthermore, there are reports of plans to deploy Italy's flagship aircraft carrier, the Cavour, in the Indian Ocean-Pacific region.

Economic Dilemma: Balancing Geopolitics and Economic Growth

Over the past 16 years, Italy's economic landscape has been marred by stagnant GDP growth, leaving the nation struggling to achieve significant economic progress. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 dealt a severe blow to Italy's already fragile economy, causing a significant decline that has yet to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels.

Adding to its economic challenges, Italy has been grappling with high inflation rates, further exacerbating the strain on businesses and households. The current inflationary pressures have been attributed to a combination of domestic and external factors, including global supply chain disruptions and increased production costs.

Italy's economic concerns are entwined with its foreign policy choices, particularly in regard to Chinese investments. Despite being part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and engaging in cooperation with China through a memorandum of understanding, Italy's current leadership has placed a higher emphasis on aligning with US geopolitical interests.

Prime Minister Meloni's government has taken a more critical approach towards Chinese investments in Italy, with a particular focus on scrutinizing deals involving state-owned Chinese companies. One prominent example was the government's move to limit Sinochem's access to sensitive technology from Italy, signaling a shift away from fostering closer economic ties with China.

Moreover, Italy's leadership recently blocked Sinochem's attempt to acquire a controlling interest in Pirelli, a significant Italian tire manufacturer, effectively restricting the Chinese company to a minority ownership. These actions demonstrate Italy's willingness to prioritize its alignment with the US over deepening economic cooperation with China.

Uncertainty Ahead: Navigating Geopolitical Realignments

Rome's naval missions to East Asia, spearheaded by the multi-role patrol vessel Francesco Morosini, further underscore Italy's growing engagement in the region. Plans to deploy the flagship aircraft carrier, the Cavour, to the Indian Ocean-Pacific area demonstrate the country's willingness to play a more active role in safeguarding shared interests in a strategically vital part of the world.

The rising wave of geopolitical realignments and Italy's increasing collaboration with US-led initiatives casts uncertainty on its continued involvement in the BRI. While Italy's initial entry into the project aimed to unlock potential economic benefits and foster closer ties with China, the dynamics have shifted significantly since then.

As Prime Minister Meloni and President Biden engage in discussions, the question arises – will Italy "break away" from the BRI? The signing of the BRI cooperation memorandum had implications beyond mere trade, hinting at a deeper relationship with China. However, as Italy strengthens its alignment with the US-NATO camp and Quad member states, the significance of the BRI in Italy's foreign policy may be subject to reevaluation.

The meeting's outcome will likely shape Italy's diplomatic course, and the world eagerly awaits to see how Italy balances its geopolitical interests and economic aspirations. As Italy weighs the importance of its involvement in the BRI amidst geopolitical shifts, the repercussions may resonate far beyond the Italian borders.