ROME, June 29 (Xinhua) -- Despite global climate and economic challenges, there is vast potential for China and Italy to cooperate on sustainable development, an Italian expert has said.

"China's competitive advantage in sustainable industries can help fill the technology gap that Italy faces," said Andrea Appolloni, a professor of management at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, in an interview with Xinhua on Thursday.

"Stronger ties could bring real solutions, especially in key sectors such as electric vehicles, smart grids and clean manufacturing," he said.

Appolloni made the remarks as Italy grapples with intensifying climate pressures. A recent heatwave has strained the country's agriculture, energy and infrastructure, prompting calls for a faster green transition.

In this context, Appolloni noted that Italy's path to sustainability is facing headwinds on multiple fronts, including rising domestic costs and limited investment, as well as a broader slowdown in Europe that is dampening export demand and diverting resources from sustainability efforts.

China's rapid advancement in clean energy, electric vehicles and green technology over the past decade has positioned it as a crucial partner, he said.

Stronger China-Italy cooperation can help both countries withstand global supply chain disruptions and trade tensions, Appolloni said, adding that by building trust and aligning standards, China and Italy could turn today's climate challenges into opportunities for more resilient growth.

As competition and geopolitics reshape global markets, Italy's pivot towards deeper ties with China could be a key step in securing its green ambitions for the years ahead, he added. Enditem