Transformations of Italian foreign policy towards China: Examining significant changes and their motivations

This thesis examines the recent evolution of Italian foreign policy towards China, with a specific focus on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the geopolitical dynamics that influenced its choices. Italy's accession to the BRI, which occurred during the Conte government, represented a significant decision that sparked debates both domestically and internationally. Accord to some scholars, this choice, motivated mainly by economic and commercial opportunities, aimed to position Italy as a bridge between Europe and Asia, encouraging investments and infrastructure improvements. However, subsequent governments, particularly under the leadership of Draghi and Meloni, reviewed and subsequently withdrew Italy's membership of the BRI, citing growing concerns over national security, technological sovereignty, and control of strategic infrastructure. Pressure from Western allies, particularly the United States, has played a central role in the reorientation of Italian politics, underlining the need to maintain a balance between economic interests and geopolitical considerations. Finally, the thesis reflects on the future prospects of Italian foreign policy towards China, highlighting how the country will have to face complex challenges in an increasingly multipolar geopolitical context, trying to maintain a balanced position between economic cooperation and safeguarding strategic interests.