Like the ancient Silk Road, China's planned new Silk Road - a multi-billion-dollar initiative that includes rail, road and port projects - should transport ideas and know-how besides goods, Italy's president Sergio Mattarella said on Friday.
"The ancient Silk Road was an instrument that allowed people to share and get to know each other's discoveries," Mattarella said at a joint press conference in Rome with China's president Xi Jinping after talks between the two heads of state.
"The new Silk Road should also be a two-way street along which ideas, talents, knowledge, future projects and far-sighted solutions to common problems transit as well as goods," Mattarella stated.
He was referring to the Belt and Road initiative, on which the Italian government plans to sign a preliminary accord during Xi's visit to Rome.
Italy's contribution to the BRI will be "crucial", Mattarella said, citing the "scientific and technological" opportunities it will offer.
Italian and Chinese firms should "do business together that is beneficial for both our people," Mattarella stated
Dozens of trade and other agreements are expected to be signed during Xi's visit to Italy through Saturday. Accompanied by a 500-strong delegation, Xi will also visit Montecarlo and France during his first overseas trip this year.
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