China and Italy Bolster Cooperation, Discuss Global Peace in Rome Diplomatic Meeting

High-Level Dialogue in Rome

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, held a significant meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella in Rome on Thursday, October 9, 2025. The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation, advancing global peace, and fostering stability. This high-level engagement underscores the ongoing efforts by both nations to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership.

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation and Strategic Partnership

During the meeting, Minister Wang Yi conveyed cordial greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to President Mattarella. Wang emphasized China's readiness to collaborate with Italy in implementing the consensus reached by their leaders and accelerating the action plan designed to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership. This year marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Italy, a milestone highlighted by Wang Yi as a testament to decades of high-level and pragmatic cooperation. President Mattarella, in turn, extended his sincere greetings to President Xi and acknowledged the positive outcomes of the 12th Joint Meeting of the China-Italy Government Committee, which Wang Yi had attended the previous day with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani.

Both leaders affirmed that China and Italy, as ancient civilizations, advocate for peace and cooperation and are committed to resolving differences through dialogue. Wang Yi expressed China's hope that Italy would work alongside it to practice true multilateralism and contribute to world peace and human civilization. He also noted China's willingness to provide a fair, transparent, non-discriminatory, and predictable business environment to encourage two-way investment.

Discussions on Global Peace and Stability

A key focus of the diplomatic exchange was the shared commitment to global peace and stability. President Mattarella acknowledged China's significant prestige and increasingly crucial role in the international community, expressing Italy's expectation for China to make greater contributions to global peace and stability. Wang Yi reiterated China's call for more dialogue and communication to enhance mutual understanding and deepen cooperation in a world facing a lack of trust.

The officials also exchanged views on pressing international issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the Ukraine crisis. Italy's plan to propose a global ceasefire to the United Nations ahead of the upcoming Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics was also discussed, with China expressing its readiness to work with Italy as a constructive force in maintaining peace and stability.

Context of Wang Yi's European Visit

Minister Wang Yi's visit to Italy is part of his broader European tour, marking his fourth European mission in 2025. This series of engagements underscores Beijing's efforts to strengthen ties with European nations. While Italy formally exited China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2023, its stance remains pragmatic, focusing on open dialogue within the framework of European de-risking policies and transatlantic alignment. The discussions in Rome aimed to ensure that bilateral relations become more stable, resilient, and fruitful, promoting development and well-being for both countries while contributing to global peace.