China's Fury Over "Slander" Allegations After Italy Ditches New Silk Road
China's top official, Wang, took a dig at Italy after it announced its withdrawal from the New Silk Road investment initiative, implying that the project is a globally popular and massive collaboration platform. Despite Wang's subtle jab, rumors of "slander" shortly circulated, sparking tension between the two nations.
As it turned out, Italy was the only G7 member to have joined the Chinese New Silk Road project, launched in 2013 by China's President, Xi Jinping. Initiated to boost economic ties and introduce infrastructure projects such as ports, railways, airports, and industrial parks in various continents, the New Silk Road has faced criticism in the West – particularly accusations that China intentionally saddles poorer countries with debt.
Italy joined the initiative in 2019 and, amidst growing concerns over the BRI's potential to create economic dependencies and strategic vulnerabilities, initiated its exit from the project. Prime Minister Meloni publicly criticized the initial decision as a "serious mistake" in 2023, while Foreign Minister Tajani expressed dissatisfaction with Italy's results associated with the New Silk Road in September.
With its withdrawal due by the end of the year, Italy officially communicated its decision to Beijing three days before its release to an Italian government source. The country's concerns went beyond the transparency and independence in infrastructure investments – drawing attention to potential geopolitical implications and the growing Chinese influence on the world stage.
China's response to the accusations of "slander" has been restrained, with a focus on maintaining diplomatic relations and ongoing economic cooperation with Italy. Despite the lack of a direct response, the situation reflects China's unique approach to international relations, where it emphasizes cultivating partner nations while addressing specific concerns in a nuanced manner.
Additional Insights
- Ongoing negotiations and varied accounts indicate that a "Defamation" suit against Italy could be imminent, adding to the escalating tensions between the two countries.
- Many other nations, including Germany and Panama, have also expressed reservations and withdrawn from China's Belt and Road Initiative, citing similar concerns over debt dependency and transparency.
- The potential for a rift between China and Western nations, particularly in Europe, continues to loom large as geopolitical tensions and economic competition intensify.
