![]() Even when EU partners came to help, this was not communicated either extensively or adequately. The lack of an efficient and pervasive communication strategy represents another shortcoming in Europe’s response. However, in a crisis where prompt responses matter, this delay may have come at a heavy price. The situation has now changed, and all of the above actors have been contributing to the Italian struggle in one way or the other. As per an all too familiar playbook, the EU took too long to respond, fellow member states displayed counterproductive initial reactions, such as blocking exports of face masks to Italy, and the US was preoccupied with its own affairs. Two elements have contributed to the success of the Chinese aid campaign: the lack of alternative support in the early stages of the crisis and a savvy media promotion strategy.Ĭhina’s activities gained attention in light of the slow reaction by actors on which Italy has traditionally relied. Following Italy’s request, China sent medical supplies and staff, receiving much media and political attention in Italy. In return, Italians’ have been grateful, perhaps not as much as some Chinese media would like their home audience to believe, but China’s effort has indeed been appreciated. One can argue on the circumstances, the hidden motivations and the numbers, but nobody can deny that China has provided prompt and direct support to Italy in its time of need. In these uncertain times, prompt and decisive responses are needed and expected. Despite strict measures in place to limit the crisis, numbers keep rising, placing the national health care system under severe strain. To date, Italy is the second hardest hit country by COVID-19 pandemic after China. ![]() ![]() The bilateral relationship between Italy and China is back in the spotlight one year after the signature of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on China’s Belt and Road Initiative. China, Italy and COVID-19: Benevolent Support or Strategic Surge?
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