Italy's decision to join China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been criticized by Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto as an "improvised and atrocious" act that did not deliver the desired boost to Italian exports.

Italy became the only major Western country to join the BRI in 2019, but Crosetto claims that Chinese exports to Italy have soared while Italian exports to China have not seen the same effect.

The BRI aims to rebuild the old Silk Road to connect China with Asia, Europe, and beyond through extensive infrastructure investment. Critics argue that it serves as a tool for China to expand its geopolitical and economic influence.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed concerns about Italy's trading relationship with China, despite being part of the BRI, and emphasized the possibility of maintaining good relations and trading partnerships outside of the initiative.

The Italian government has until December to make a decision on its participation in the BRI. Criticizing Beijing's assertive attitudes and global ambitions, Crosetto emphasized the need for Italy to withdraw from the BRI without harming its relations with China. Despite China's efforts to persuade Italy to renew the agreement, there have been discussions about a potential withdrawal since May 2021.