China and Spain Strengthen Economic Cooperation, King of Spain: The friendship between China and Spain undoubtedly serves the common interests of the two peoples ...
Reuters reported that Felipe VI is the first Spanish king to make a state visit to China in 18 years. Previously, US President Trump had warned that if Madrid did not increase its funding for NATO, "Spain would pay double the price." Under this pressure, Spain has become one of the most proactive countries in the EU in seeking Chinese investment.
Spain Promotes a New Strategy Toward China Within the EU
In April this year, Spain announced a new foreign policy outline, proposing to strengthen cooperation with Japan and South Korea on supply chain security, while deepening trade and economic relations with China. This strategy shows that Spain hopes to play a more independent diplomatic role within the EU.
The Symbolic Role of "Moderate Diplomacy"
As a constitutional monarch, Felipe VI provides Madrid with an alternative path of "low-key diplomacy" - he can play a symbolic bridging role during politically sensitive periods without directly influencing government positions.
During the meeting, Felipe stated, "The friendship between China and Spain undoubtedly serves the common interests of the two peoples and aligns with the identities of our two countries as historically rich and globally oriented nations." He added, "A relationship of mutual trust has been established between the two sides."
Signing Ten Bilateral Cooperation Agreements Covering Food Safety and Aerospace Fields
The two sides witnessed the signing of ten bilateral cooperation agreements covering areas such as food safety and phytosanitary standards, language education, and cooperation in aerospace and astronomy.
China expressed support for more Chinese companies to invest in Spain, expanding cooperation in emerging industries such as photovoltaics, green hydrogen, and power battery technology.
Spain Accelerates Deepening Economic Engagement with China
In October 2024, Spain chose to abstain from voting. Afterward, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez repeatedly called for the removal of tariffs and actively promoted Spain - the fourth-largest economy in the EU - as an ideal destination for Chinese investment.
Spain exports approximately $1.2 billion worth of meat and by-products to China annually, accounting for about one-fifth of China's pork imports.
Source: rfi
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1848632892283907/
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