Beijing, April 12, 2025 – The Europe Today: Chinese President Xi Jinping and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez met in Beijing on Friday, reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral ties and jointly safeguarding the international trade order, amidst rising global tensions and economic uncertainties.
Marking the 20th anniversary of the China-Spain Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, President Xi emphasized the importance of building a more resilient and dynamic relationship, rooted in mutual support, trust, and respect. He highlighted both nations’ role in promoting multilateralism, openness, and global cooperation.
“China is ready to work with Spain to enhance the well-being of our peoples and contribute to world peace, stability, and development,” Xi stated.
Xi underscored China’s vast market potential, noting that the consumption upgrade of 1.4 billion people and industrial transformation present valuable opportunities for cooperation. He encouraged both sides to tap into new areas such as green energy, smart cities, and high-tech manufacturing, through established economic and technological cooperation frameworks.
The Chinese leader also stressed the importance of political solidarity, particularly in supporting each other’s sovereignty and core interests. He called for an expansion of student exchanges and youth engagement to ensure the continuity of the longstanding friendship between the two nations.
On his part, Prime Minister Sanchez praised the consistent progress made over the past two decades. He reiterated Spain’s firm adherence to the One-China policy and voiced his government’s commitment to deepening high-level exchanges and broadening cooperation with China.
“Spain values its relationship with China and sees it as a key partner in a changing global environment,” Sanchez said, also expressing Spain’s backing for strong EU-China relations.
President Xi reaffirmed China’s view of the EU as a vital global pillar, advocating for continued partnership and cooperation to promote strategic stability and mutual prosperity. He emphasized the importance of marking the upcoming 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic relations with tangible advancements in cooperation.
A Common Stand Against Trade Wars
The leaders took a firm stance against protectionism and tariff wars, aligning their positions on free trade and global economic integration.
“There is no winner in a tariff war,” Xi said. “Unilateralism and economic bullying only lead to self-isolation.”
He noted China’s economic rise has been built on self-reliance and perseverance, stressing that China will remain focused and confident despite external challenges.
Both leaders emphasized the interdependence between China and the EU, whose combined economies make up over a third of global output. They agreed on the need to defend the multilateral trading system, uphold international rules, and resist unilateral tariff measures that threaten global stability.
Prime Minister Sanchez echoed Xi’s remarks, affirming that Spain and the EU remain committed to open markets and fair trade, and are ready to enhance coordination with China to tackle global challenges, including climate change, poverty, and geopolitical instability.
Dialogue on Global Issues
The two leaders also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis, though no detailed statements were released. Their shared commitment to dialogue and peace underscored the broader theme of the meeting: building collaborative, rules-based solutions to global problems.
The visit marked a significant reaffirmation of China-Spain ties, as both countries navigate an increasingly fragmented international landscape.
