Senior China Diplomat Says Italy Backs Belt and Road in Concept
Trieste's new port, as the historic city prepares to open to China.
Photographer: Marco Di Lauro/Getty Images
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A senior Chinese diplomat said he believes Italy still backs the concept of President Xi Jinping’s signature global investment initiative, even as the European nation mulls leaving the controversial pact.
“Personally I feel Italy is generally in agreement with the concept of the Belt and Road initiative, the possible outcome it could bring, as well as to promote cooperation along the BRI,” said Liu Jianchao, director of the Communist Party’s International Department. “They’re just still having some considerations on whether to renew the agreement.”