Beijing, Monday—Chinese President Xi Jinping and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez met in Beijing to strengthen the longstanding relationship between China and Spain. The meeting, held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, underscored the commitment of both nations to elevate their comprehensive strategic partnership to new heights.
President Xi highlighted the significance of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations celebrated last year, noting the close exchanges and high-quality cooperation that have developed. He emphasized the importance of building long-term and stable bilateral relations with strategic determination, urging both sides to adhere to mutual respect and equal treatment.
“We should take a holistic and long-term view and add new dimensions to our bilateral ties,” Xi stated. He called for the utilization of platforms such as the Mixed Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation and the China-Spain Joint Commission on Science and Technology Cooperation to promote development in high-tech fields like artificial intelligence, digital economy, and new energy.
President Xi expressed hope that Spain would continue to provide a fair, equal, safe, and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese businesses operating in Spain. He also advocated for strengthening cultural exchanges in areas such as language education, youth programs, culture, and tourism to foster deeper people-to-people connections.
Looking ahead to the 20th anniversary of the China-Spain comprehensive strategic partnership next year, Xi remarked that the two sides should adhere to their original intent based on mutual respect. “We hope Spain will continue to play a constructive role to that end,” he added.
Prime Minister Sanchez acknowledged the vast potential and bright prospects of bilateral cooperation, noting the multiple cooperation agreements signed during his visit, particularly in green development. He expressed Spain’s readiness to enhance cultural exchanges, deepen trade cooperation, and support Chinese businesses by providing a favorable environment.
“Spain and China are committed to preserving world peace and upholding multilateralism,” Sanchez said. He emphasized the need for the international community to work together to address global challenges such as conflicts, poverty, and climate change. He also recognized China as a key force in maintaining world peace and development.
Sanchez affirmed Spain’s commitment to the one-China policy and expressed a desire to be a trustworthy partner for China. He looked forward to further deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership to contribute to the well-being of both peoples and global prosperity.
The two leaders also exchanged views on international issues, including the Ukraine crisis and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, agreeing on the importance of enhancing communication and coordination in international organizations like the United Nations and the G20.
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President Xi meets Spanish PM Sanchez, calls for efforts to boost ties
cgtn.com
