Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is set to embark on an official visit to China from Sunday to Wednesday, aiming to bolster the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. The visit signifies a mutual commitment to deepen ties and enhance cooperation on various fronts.
During his stay, Prime Minister Sanchez will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, will also hold separate meetings with him. The leaders are expected to exchange views on bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest, focusing on strengthening economic ties and addressing global challenges.
High-Level Meetings and Forums
The visit will feature significant events such as the China-Spain Forum, the China-Spain Business Advisory Council Meeting, and the China-Spain Business Forum. These platforms aim to facilitate dialogue between government officials and business leaders, fostering opportunities for collaboration in sectors like electric vehicles, green energy, and the digital economy.
A Milestone in Diplomatic Relations
China and Spain have been comprehensive strategic partners for over half a century. Since establishing diplomatic ties, both countries have nurtured a traditional friendship, deepened mutually beneficial cooperation, and maintained steady growth in relations. According to Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this visit is expected to further advance bilateral relations and add new dimensions to their partnership.
“China hopes that through this visit, the two sides will deepen mutual trust through high-level exchanges and address global challenges through high-quality cooperation,” Mao stated upon announcing Sanchez’s visit.
Building on Previous Engagements
Prime Minister Sanchez’s upcoming trip follows his visit to China in March 2023, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. During that meeting, President Xi emphasized the importance of planning bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, adhering to mutually beneficial cooperation, and supporting each other on issues concerning core interests such as sovereignty, security, and development.
President Xi expressed China’s willingness to import more quality Spanish goods and hoped that Spain would provide a fair business environment for Chinese companies. He also encouraged Spain to play a positive role in promoting dialogue and cooperation between China and the European Union.
In response, Prime Minister Sanchez affirmed Spain’s commitment to maintaining candid communication and enhancing mutual trust with China. He highlighted the potential for deeper cooperation in areas including electric vehicles, green energy, and the digital economy.
Economic Ties and Trade Growth
China has become Spain’s largest trading partner outside the European Union. Bilateral trade expanded from $37.9 billion in 2020 to $48.6 billion in 2023, an increase of approximately 28%, according to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM). The growth reflects the strengthening economic relationship and the rising demand for goods between the two nations.
Spain has actively participated in major Chinese trade exhibitions, including all editions of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) and the China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE). These events have provided Spanish businesses with valuable opportunities to enter the Chinese market and have introduced premium Spanish agricultural products to Chinese consumers.
He Yadong, spokesperson for MOFCOM, noted in February that leveraging the opportunities provided by the CIIE and CICPE, a growing number of Spanish specialty products have found their way to Chinese dining tables.
Looking Ahead
The forthcoming visit of Prime Minister Sanchez is poised to further enhance the China-Spain comprehensive strategic partnership. With both nations committed to mutual growth and cooperation, the visit is expected to yield positive outcomes that will benefit not only the two countries but also contribute to addressing global challenges.
Reference(s):
What to expect from Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's China visit
cgtn.com
