As the trade war between China and the United States escalates, Spain has chosen to side with China.
This has left a bitter taste in the mouth of the United States. US Treasury Secretary Scott Beasont warned that considering closer relations with China is "tantamount to cutting one's own throat" for Spain.
However, this did not change Spain's stance. From April 10 to 11, Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez embarked on a visit to China and stated that Spain values its relations with China, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation in trade, investment, scientific and technological innovation, green energy, and other areas. He also emphasized strengthening exchanges in education, culture, and tourism, and pushing bilateral relations to new heights.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain. Previously, Spanish Ambassador to China Betanzos attended the Renmin University of China's Grandiose Yuan Regional and National Studies Forum's "Ambassador Lecture Series," comprehensively reviewing the development process of Sino-Spanish relations, and noted that the Asia-Pacific region has become an important priority in Spain's foreign policy. The diplomatic relations between Spain and China have been further strengthened in recent years.
The Renmin University of China's Grandiose Yuan has authorized the full text to be published by Guancha Observer Network.
Betanzos:
Dear friends, scholars, professors, dear students, and friends from Spain, good afternoon!
In 2023, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Spain and China. This year, we also mark the 20th anniversary of the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership. Both countries have long histories and cultures, and our visions for the prosperity of future societies are highly aligned.
Today, I would like to review the deepening cooperative relationship between Spain and China. I will briefly introduce the transformation of Spain since the 1970s, then discuss Spain's foreign policy, focusing on political, economic, tourism, educational, and civilian exchanges with China, as well as the outlook for future cooperation.
Spain's Evolution Since the 1970s
Back in 1973, Spain and China stood at completely different historical crossroads. At that time, Spain was still in the transitional period following the end of Franco's dictatorship, with political instability and uncertainty reaching a peak in the late 1970s. Afterward, Spain began the path toward establishing a modern democratic system and a rule-of-law state, enacting a modern constitution in 1978 to become a democratic nation. Simultaneously, Spain became a decentralized country, setting up 17 autonomous regions, each with its own governance structure and official language.
During this period, Spain gradually reintegrated into the international community. In 1977, Spain became a member of the Council of Europe, reaffirming its commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. In 1982, Spain joined NATO, further strengthening cooperation with the transatlantic region. In 1986, Spain joined the European Union, promoting economic and political integration. In 1991, Spain hosted the Middle East Peace Conference in Madrid, advancing the peace process between Israel and its Arab neighbors. In 1992, Spain hosted the Ibero-American Summit, further strengthening historical ties and cooperation with Latin American countries.
Entering the 21st century, Spain began significantly expanding its global influence, particularly in Africa and the Asia-Pacific region. Spain's diplomatic deployment became increasingly extensive, aiming to establish close ties with emerging markets through promoting trade, investment, and cultural cooperation while fostering more mutual understanding and common collaboration. Today, Spain operates 215 embassies and consulates worldwide, a number that reflects its activity and influence globally.
Spanish Ambassador to China Betanzos delivers a speech titled "Spain and China: Half a Century of Walking Together and the 20th Anniversary of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" at the Regional and National Studies Forum's "Ambassador Lecture Series." Photo courtesy of "Grandiose Yuan" WeChat Official Account.
Spain's Economic Transformation and Achievements
In terms of economy, Spain's transformation since the 1970s is remarkable. In 1973, Spain's GDP was approximately $78 billion, with a per capita GDP of about $2,200. By 2023, Spain's GDP had grown to approximately $1.5 trillion, with a per capita GDP of around $32,000. This change not only demonstrates the diversification and robust growth of Spain's economy but also showcases the results of Spain as an open economy integrating into the global market.
Spain's economic recovery also provides the world with valuable experience. According to The Economist, Spain is expected to be the best-performing economy among wealthy nations in 2024. Indicators such as GDP growth, inflation, unemployment rates, fiscal policies, and stock market performance all indicate that Spain's performance in 2024 is excellent, even surpassing the U.S. in terms of economic growth and job creation speed.
Spain's economic success is due to a series of structural reforms. Since the financial crisis of 2014, Spain has implemented reforms in banking consolidation, labor market flexibility, and green energy investment. These measures helped Spain emerge from the economic downturn and gradually restore growth. Tourism has also recovered from the pandemic's lows, with Spain progressively enhancing the value-added of its industrial chain, exporting consulting services, technological innovations, agricultural products (such as olives, ham, and wine), and more. Besides traditional exports, the service sector has increased its export volume, further enhancing Spain's weight in the global economy, especially in infrastructure, telecommunications, and renewable energy sectors.
Currently, Spain has achieved significant accomplishments in multiple fields. In the transportation sector, Spain boasts the second-largest railway network in the world, just behind China. Spain's high-speed rail technology innovation places it at the forefront globally, with exports to countries like Saudi Arabia and the United States.
In the telecommunications sector, Spain leads Europe, with 5G network coverage exceeding 85%. Not only in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona, but Spain has also strengthened network construction in rural areas, consolidating its leading position in the global telecommunications sector.
Spain is also at the forefront globally in renewable energy, particularly in solar and wind power. Thanks to favorable geographical conditions and government support, Spain's investment in renewable energy continues to grow, with 60% of annual energy consumption currently coming from renewable sources.
Spain has committed through legislation to complete the phase-out of coal by 2025 and vigorously develop solar energy.
In the automotive industry, Spain is the second-largest automobile producer in Europe and the eighth globally, achieving notable results in its transition to electrification and sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Spain also leads in high-tech machinery and machine tools, being the third-largest machine tool exporter in Europe and the ninth globally.
In the biopharmaceutical and biomedical fields, Spain similarly leads, making significant contributions to global health endeavors.
Of course, these achievements are not accidental but the result of continuous innovation, education, and international cooperation. We are proud of the contributions made by Spanish companies worldwide.
Spain's economic success is also due to the global influence of its language and its status as a global tourist destination. Spanish is the second most spoken native language globally, after Chinese, with over 580 million people using Spanish worldwide. Over 55 million people in the U.S. use Spanish, making it the second-largest language after English and the most popular foreign language in middle and high schools.
Besides, Spain is also a tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually and influencing the world through literature, film, music, art, cuisine, and football (such as La Liga).
Spain's Foreign Policy
Spain's foreign policy has three key principles:
First, the principle of cultural and geographic proximity plays a crucial role in defining Spain's relationships with Europe, Ibero-America, and the Maghreb region.
Second, multilateralism is upheld, as seen in our active participation in international organizations such as the United Nations and the Council of Europe, promoting global governance, openness, and global cooperation to address major regional challenges like immigration issues and environmental challenges such as global warming.
Third, we defend core values, which form the fundamental basis for Spain's handling of international relations and involvement in international affairs. The EU is a natural framework for Spain's political and economic engagement, and Spain plays a vital role in addressing current challenges and needs by promoting a more effective and democratic EU.
At the same time, one of Spain's traditional pillars of foreign policy is its close relationship with Ibero-America. Spanish has deep historical connections in the region, so our relationship with Ibero-America is based on shared interests and values. Moreover, Spain serves as a crucial bridge between Europe and Ibero-America.
On September 9 local time, US Treasury Secretary Scott Beasont warned Spain against getting closer to China. Video screenshot.
Relations with North African countries are equally important; Spain has actively promoted the "Barcelona Process" and is home to the Secretariat of the "Union for the Mediterranean," making it a key link in Europe's relations with the Mediterranean, Southern neighboring countries, and North African countries. In recent years, Africa's importance in Spain's foreign policy and strategy has been rising. Spain has strengthened its diplomatic, commercial, and cultural presence in the region and pays high attention to sustainable development.
Moreover, the Asia-Pacific region occupies an important position in Spain's twenty-first-century foreign policy. Over the past 15 years, Spain's diplomatic, consular, and business presence in the Asia-Pacific region has been consolidated. For example, Spain has consulates general in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. In 2022, Spain opened its fifth consulate general in Chengdu, further expanding its consular network in China and adding a second Cervantes Institute in Shanghai.
Spain-China Relations
Spain's relations with China date back far before the establishment of diplomatic relations on March 9, 1973, tracing back to the 16th century when Spanish missionaries made significant contributions to cultural exchange between China and Spain.
Additionally, the nearly 250-year-old Spanish galleon trade represented the world's first trans-Pacific trade route, facilitating the circulation of goods such as tea, porcelain, and silk, while allowing American silver to flow into China, promoting economic and cultural exchanges across the Pacific.
Entering the 21st century, Sino-Spanish relations have continued to deepen. From bilateral trade amounting to only $20 million at the establishment of early diplomatic relations to trade exceeding €56 billion today, Spanish enterprises are expanding their influence in China.
In the agricultural and food sectors, Spain is one of China's main pork suppliers, with annual exports amounting to approximately €2 billion.
In the renewable energy sector, Spanish companies such as Gamesa and Acciona are conducting wind energy projects in China, contributing to China's energy transition.
In the industrial technology sector, companies like Gestamp and Grupo Antolin have established nine production plants in China to serve the local automotive market. It is worth noting that advanced industrial technology companies such as Nicolas Correa are also involved in cooperation in China's aerospace sector.
Furthermore, China is investing in Spain. Companies such as COSCO Group and China Three Gorges Corporation have increased their investments in Spain. Particularly in the renewable energy sector, companies like CATL, Chery, Envision, and BYD are making new investments in Spain. These collaborations reflect Spain's advantages in infrastructure, ports, supply chains, and connectivity with Europe, North Africa, and Latin America.
The photovoltaic power station acquired by the Three Gorges Group in Spain. Three Gorges Group.
However, we also note that the trade balance issue between Spain and China has drawn increasing attention. In 2022, Spain's exports to China amounted to €8.3 billion, while imports exceeded €35 billion, creating a significant trade deficit. To this end, we will continue to strengthen dialogue and negotiations with China to ensure a fair trade and investment environment, particularly in areas such as agriculture, industrial technology, cosmetics, and auto parts. Spain expects to further promote cooperation by reducing market access restrictions.
In today's increasingly interconnected world, Sino-Spanish relations are crucial in addressing global challenges. Cooperation between the two countries is particularly important, especially in areas such as tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
In terms of tourism, Spain is the second most popular tourist destination globally, welcoming 85.1 million international tourists in 2023, setting a new record. Tourism contributes 13.4% to Spain's GDP and accounts for 29.4% of overall economic growth. In recent years, 85% of Spanish tourists are repeat visitors. The proportion of returning Chinese tourists is 10% higher than the average return rate of other European destinations. Spain boasts rich cultural tourism resources, including 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 15 World Heritage Cities, and 8,000 kilometers of high-quality beaches.
Spain is also the third-largest country hosting international conferences globally, with Madrid and Barcelona ranking among the top conference destinations worldwide. Spain's airports handle 283 million passengers annually, although this number is significantly lower compared to China. However, we hope to attract more Chinese tourists to Spain. Currently, the number of Chinese visitors is around 500,000, and we hope more Chinese tourists will choose Spain as a travel destination in the future.
In the field of education, the relationship between China and Spain has significantly developed over the past decade, particularly between universities. Both sides have signed numerous cooperation agreements. Spain is one of the countries that have signed an agreement for mutual recognition of higher education qualifications with China, which was signed in 2007. Under this agreement, Chinese students can enter Spanish universities with their national college entrance examination scores. Each year, an increasing number of Chinese students choose Spain as their study abroad destination, with the number of Chinese students in Spain now exceeding 12,500, becoming the second-largest group of foreign students in Spain's public universities. We hope this number will continue to grow, and through cooperation with Chinese institutions, we can attract more Chinese students to study in Spain. It is worth noting that three of Spain's top business schools rank among the top 30 in Europe, reflecting the openness and quality of Spain's university system.
Moreover, regarding the learning of Spanish, currently, the total number of students studying Spanish in China exceeds 60,000, including both formal and informal education students. This number is far from sufficient. We hope to further increase the number of Chinese students learning Spanish, especially by encouraging exchanges with Chinese colleges, teachers, and students to spark more interest in the Spanish language.
At the bilateral level, Sino-Spanish relations continue to develop, with increasingly close cooperation at both the national and regional levels. The achievements over the past 20 years are thanks to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed between China and Spain in 2005, which provides strong institutional support for bilateral relations. Under this framework, we have established mechanisms to ensure the continuity and depth of exchanges. These mechanisms include an annual deputy minister-level political dialogue; at the ministerial level, specialized committees focus on science and technology, university cooperation, trade and investment cooperation.
Before his visit to China, Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez stated that President Trump's actions on global trade mean that Europe needs to change its stance toward China.
Government-supported entities also play a crucial role in promoting bilateral cooperation. The Spanish-Chinese Business Council and the Spanish-Chinese Foundation actively promote economic, policy, and civilian exchanges, providing strong support for the development of bilateral relations.
In 2025, we will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership. Previously, Prime Minister Sanchez of our country visited China twice, in March 2023 and this September, opening up new opportunities for future cooperation, especially in education, tourism, culture, and trade. I believe that as bilateral relations continue to develop, more new cooperation opportunities will arise.
Today, I briefly introduced Spain's development process since the 1970s. Dear students present, as future leaders, you will bear the responsibility of building closer ties between China and Spain. We hope you will develop an interest in the Spanish language and culture. Spain not only offers fine wines, delicious food, and football but also rich cultural resources worthy of exploration. I also encourage you to share stories, values, and creativity from China with Spain. Through such exchanges, we can build a more interconnected and understanding world.
I believe that China and Spain possess unique cooperative potential, from economic exchanges to cultural dialogues, from technological innovation to sustainable development. We share a common vision, and the possibilities for cooperation and development are limitless. We need to work together to stride toward a bright future.
Thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to speak at Renmin University and share the latest developments in Spain and Sino-Spanish relations. I look forward to new steps in cooperation and understanding between the peoples of the two countries.
Thank you!
Below is the Q&A session with the audience:
Question 1: With Trump potentially beginning his second term, how do you think he will play a role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and China-related issues? Will there be any changes?
Betanzos: Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as one of the permanent members of the UN Security Council, China should continue to play the role of a responsible major power and actively promote the peaceful resolution of conflicts. From the European perspective, Europe views this conflict as a survival crisis, so the attitudes of both sides are crucial for Sino-European trust. China has the strength and influence to make major participants reconsider their positions and attitudes, and European countries are also actively promoting the peace process.
Question 2: 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain. Can you introduce any specific plans regarding youth exchanges and cultural exchanges?
Betanzos: We are carefully planning, hoping that the 20th anniversary is not just a milestone but also a key node for promoting student, youth, and civilian cultural exchanges. For example, leveraging universities like Renmin University to facilitate more interactions between academics and students. We are also considering ways to address the issue of Spanish students in China having less contact with Chinese students, and we hope to find better ways for students to deepen their ties and increase interaction in various fields. We will set and share the event schedule as soon as possible.
Question 3: What convenient policies does Spain have for Chinese students and tourists, especially regarding visas?
Betanzos: As a Schengen Zone member, Spain's visa policy follows EU regulations. However, Spain is attempting to push for visa reforms to make them more convenient. The newly established consulate general will provide more convenient services. We also have our own national visa policies, which can allow entry into Spain according to our terms and requirements. Additionally, we are discussing reciprocity and mutual benefits, hoping to provide more work and study opportunities for foreigners in China.
Question 4: How do you think women can contribute to international politics and the entire world to make it more peaceful and beautiful? What advice do you have for young women?
Betanzos: Thank you for your question. Your ambition and vision are truly admirable. But I must humbly say that I don't have a good answer for your question. In my view, gender is not the key factor in doing things. I just try my best to do what I am supposed to do and seize opportunities when they appear, doing my best. As for why many influential people are women, some believe it is because women express themselves better. I think the key lies in how to convey one's ideas in the right way and content, whether in family or community communication, you decide how you express yourself.
Renmin University of China Dean Wang Wen and Ambassador Betanzos participate in the Q&A session with the audience. Photo courtesy of "Grandiose Yuan" WeChat Official Account.
Question 5: Regarding the deployment of 5G networks in Spain, is Huawei, a leading company in the 5G field globally, involved? Will the attitudes of Europe and the United States have any impact?
Betanzos: Regarding the Huawei 5G issue, this is a controversial topic within Europe and the EU, but in Spain, we have not removed them from our list of cooperators. As a company, Huawei can participate in the deployment of Spanish telecom projects, and ultimately who gets the chance to deploy 5G depends on the competitive situation among companies.
Question 6: Currently, Spain, Ireland, and Norway have taken the lead in recognizing the status of Palestine, and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell is paying attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Given the different attitudes of European countries toward the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, what attitude will Spain take toward this conflict and the parties involved, and what policies will it adopt in humanitarian aid?
Betanzos: In 1991, I participated in the important conference on Middle East peace held in Madrid. At that time, I was a young politician working with representatives from various parties to promote the Middle East peace process. However, twenty years later, the situation in the Middle East has worsened, with conflicts escalating. Since last year, large-scale conflicts have gradually erupted, and residents in Gaza face severe humanitarian threats.
Therefore, we have consistently called for humanitarian assistance to Gaza, firmly opposing any inhumane or non-humanitarian behavior, which is unforgivable and unacceptable. Based on this, we decided to take further action, recognizing the status of the State of Palestine. We believe that this measure is the best feasible solution to resolve the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and recognizing the "two-state solution" also helps protect the integrity and territorial security of Palestine.
Question 7: Currently, China and Europe are continuing consultations on new energy vehicles. In April, Chery Automobile signed an agreement with EV Motors, a parent company of EBRO, to establish a joint venture in Barcelona to produce new electric vehicles, with production starting in November. What kind of cooperation do you expect between China and Spain in the field of new energy vehicles in the future?
Betanzos: Regarding consultations on the electric vehicle sector, discussions between China and the EU are ongoing and have not yet reached a final outcome. Although tariffs have been raised in certain areas, such as China's tariff on brandy and the EU's tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, negotiations are still underway, particularly regarding price, tariff fluctuations, and the maximum increase level, where adjustments are still possible.
For future cooperation in electric vehicles between China and Spain, this depends on several factors, including the trade tariff policies taken by President Trump of the United States, which may have significant impacts on Sino-Spanish relations. Spain and China have close economic ties, and in some ways, their destinies are intertwined. Therefore, Spain hopes to reach an agreement with China to further improve bilateral trade relations. In addition to tariff issues, subsidies, capacity, and competitiveness will also be important topics in future cooperation, as these factors will directly affect bilateral trade flows. Thus, consensus needs to be achieved through further negotiations and open dialogue.
Currently, Spain has released some investment plans in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and battery sectors, although they have not yet been formally implemented. However, there may be more progress in the coming months. Both governments are actively promoting the achievement of consensus, striving for win-win outcomes. Spain remains optimistic about cooperation in the coming months and looks forward to making progress at critical moments.
Question 8: What is the current situation of artificial intelligence development in Spain, and what kind of cooperation plans do you expect between China and Spain in this field?
Betanzos: Artificial intelligence is a broad issue involving multiple technical layers and application scenarios. While I have limited knowledge of the specifics of the technology, it is clear that there is vast potential for cooperation between China and Spain in the field of artificial intelligence. Especially in global AI governance, China and Spain can cooperate to make AI a common asset for all rather than a privilege for a few. Therefore, governance will be an important direction for cooperation between the two countries.
Question 9: As the first female ambassador appointed by Spain to China, how do you view the role of women in diplomacy? Will Spain collaborate with Chinese media in the future to promote cultural exchanges between the two countries?
Betanzos: I believe many women have ambitions to enter more fields beyond traditional female professions, which is a good thing. Regarding the role of women in diplomacy, although it may not bring immediate substantive changes, their involvement makes various fields more flexible and easier to understand. When we engage in our careers, we just need to work sincerely and honestly.
Question 10: Does Spain consider implementing better policies to help Chinese students and citizens enter Spain? Given the trend in the EU, including France, turning politically right-leaning and imposing restrictive policies on students and tourists from outside Europe, how will Spain respond?
Betanzos: Regarding the trend of the European Parliament leaning rightward and its policy direction, we indeed see this change, but I do not quite understand what kind of impact this will have on tourists and tourism.
In terms of tourism, we maintain a professional attitude, striving to provide tourists with a high-quality experience throughout the year, blending landscape visits, museum tours, cityscapes, cuisine, and luxury experiences.
Additionally, regarding the safety issue you mentioned, according to data from the Global Economic Forum, Spain ranks among the global leaders in safety, with no records of violence or fatalities, so from this perspective, we do not feel there are any problems with tourism in this regard.
Question 11: With the advancement of the Belt and Road Initiative, China and Spain have cooperation in economics, culture, and sustainable development. What are the new developments, and what do you think about them?
Betanzos: Spain has not yet signed a Belt and Road cooperation agreement, but as a founding member of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), we can not only obtain funding resources through this platform but also invest in infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road framework.
The Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China in 2013 has been widely welcomed and achieved significant results. Spain has always paid high attention to it. The EU also has its own similar initiatives, such as the Global Gateway initiative and related financial mechanisms, aimed at providing infrastructure support and investment to neighboring countries and promoting economic and trade development.
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