Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping met Spain’s King Felipe VI in Beijing on Tuesday, marking a key step toward deepening diplomatic and economic relations between China and Spain. The meeting took place during the Spanish monarch’s three-day state visit to China, which began on Monday. This is the first visit by a Spanish king to China in 18 years.
President Xi welcomed King Felipe with a formal ceremony at the Great Hall of the People. The two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in trade, renewable energy, technology, and cultural exchange. Both sides expressed interest in promoting mutual trust and boosting investment between their countries.
China described the visit as an important opportunity to strengthen what it calls a comprehensive strategic partnership with Spain. Xi emphasized that closer cooperation would help both nations face global economic uncertainties and contribute to a more stable international order.
For Spain, the visit is aimed at improving access to China’s large market and reducing a long-standing trade imbalance. King Felipe urged for greater openness and legal certainty to help Spanish companies operate more easily in China. He said Spain is ready to work with China in areas like green energy, innovation, and the automotive industry.
The King’s visit also includes meetings with Chinese business leaders and Spanish companies operating in China. Spanish officials hope to attract new Chinese investments in sectors such as electric vehicles, battery production, and renewable energy.
Observers say the visit reflects Spain’s effort to maintain balanced relations with both China and its Western allies. As tensions grow between China and the West, Madrid appears focused on pursuing an independent approach that supports dialogue and cooperation.
The visit highlights how Spain is using its monarchy to promote diplomacy and strengthen cultural ties. Along with economic meetings, Queen Letizia is participating in cultural events to promote Spanish language and art in China.
China and Spain established diplomatic relations in 1973 and elevated their partnership to a strategic level in 2005. The renewed engagement during this visit signals both countries’ commitment to deepen cooperation in a rapidly changing global landscape.