Spain and China Strengthen Ties Amid Global Threats

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited Beijing from April 11 to April 15, 2026. He met Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People on April 14.

Handshake and Political Signals

The leaders exchanged greetings and held bilateral talks. Xi warned the international order was “crumbling” during the meeting.

Sánchez said Europe and China must deepen cooperation to counter threats to multilateralism. He urged Beijing to play a larger global role.

Trade Deals and Economic Commitments

Beijing agreed to measures aimed at reducing Spain’s trade deficit of nearly $50 billion. Officials said the step intends to rebalance commerce between the two nations.

Sánchez planned to sign agreements with Premier Li Qiang. These deals include expanded access for Spanish agricultural products to China.

Additional accords will target Spain’s transport and infrastructure development. Leaders gave few operational details at the press conference.

Strategic Context in Western Relations

Many Western governments have sought warmer ties with Beijing this year. Leaders from Britain, Canada, Finland and Ireland visited China earlier in 2026.

Sánchez contrasted European and Chinese cooperation with shifting U.S. policy. He criticized what he called U.S. withdrawal from key global issues.

Security, Law and Regional Crises

The Spanish premier raised conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon and Ukraine with Xi. He described the situation in those regions as grave.

Sánchez accused Israel of violating international law. He also noted a warning from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about diplomatic consequences for Madrid.

Spain has declined requests to use its jointly operated bases for strikes on Iran. Sánchez has been a vocal critic of the Iran war.

Middle Powers and Multilateralism

Sánchez said middle powers must defend the multilateral order. He echoed similar calls made earlier this year at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

His visit emphasized how Spain and China move to strengthen ties amid common global threats. The meetings sought practical steps in trade and infrastructure.

Reporting compiled for Filmogaz.com.