Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini emphasized the potential for enhanced collaboration between Italy and China in the automotive and transportation sectors during an interview with China’s state news agency Xinhua. The remarks were made amidst ongoing trade tensions between Beijing and the European Union (EU), particularly over allegations of unfair subsidies to Chinese carmakers. Salvini, who also serves as Italy’s transport minister, highlighted the ‘broad prospects for cooperation’ in areas such as smart roads, high-speed rail, and autonomous driving technologies. He praised China’s advancements in high-speed rail, noting that while Italy aims to achieve speeds of 300 km per hour, China is already exploring speeds of up to 500 km per hour. Additionally, he lauded China’s progress in artificial intelligence and innovation. Despite Italy’s support for the European Commission’s 2024 decision to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, the country has sought to maintain positive relations with Beijing. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government has continued to welcome Chinese investment, even after Italy’s withdrawal from China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Salvini expressed optimism about the potential for infrastructure development between the two nations. However, the broader EU-China relationship remains strained, with the EU imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and China retaliating with anti-dumping duties on European pork and brandy, as well as investigations into the dairy sector.