Italy relies on China’s 'role' in finding solution to war in Ukraine: Foreign Ministry

By Nur Asena Erturk

Italy relies on China’s role in finding a solution to the war in Ukraine, the country’s foreign minister said on Thursday.

Antonio Tajani met Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Politburo of the Chinese Communist Party, in Rome, the Italian Foreign Ministry said.

They discussed ways to strengthen “economic cooperation, with particular attention to growth and the rebalancing of trade exchange, the agri-food sector, and investment issues,” the statement read.

The officials also spoke about global issues including the war in Ukraine, which continues since February 2022.

“We rely on China’s role and decisive influence to achieve a fair and negotiated solution in Ukraine,” Tajani said, adding: “Beijing’s influence can also be significant in dissuading North Korea from destabilising initiatives that threaten regional and global security.”

North Korea confirmed Thursday that it launched an intercontinental ballistic missile, marking Pyongyang's 12th missile test this year.

The launch follows claims about North Korean troops being deployed to Russia, a move condemned by South Korea, the US and NATO.