BEIJING, China: Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez arrived in Beijing on September 9 for high-level talks aimed at enhancing economic relations with China. His visit includes meetings with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, alongside engagements with top Chinese lawmakers and business leaders.
Sanchez, who previously met Xi in March 2023 and participated in the Boao Forum for Asia, emphasized the importance of the strong ties between Spain and China despite ongoing trade disputes between Beijing and the European Union. At a forum in Beijing, Sanchez underscored the commitment to a constructive dialogue and a collaborative approach to resolve issues that may arise.
During his visit, Sanchez will also travel to Shanghai, where he will meet local officials and business leaders and inaugurate a new Cervantes Institute cultural center. His trip comes at a time when Spain’s diplomatic stance has drawn attention due to recent developments in Venezuela. Sanchez has shown support for Venezuelan opposition figure Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who recently fled to Spain, while China maintains close relations with Nicolas Maduro’s government.
The visit occurs against a backdrop of escalating trade tensions between the EU and China. Last month, the European Commission proposed imposing up to 36% import duties on Chinese electric vehicles, prompting Beijing to respond with investigations into EU subsidies and anti-dumping measures affecting various imports. Notably, Spain is a significant exporter of pork to China, with over 560,000 tonnes sold last year, valued at €1.2 billion.
Sanchez’s visit aims to fortify Spain-China relations amidst these tensions, demonstrating Spain’s dedication to maintaining and expanding economic cooperation despite broader geopolitical and trade conflicts.
