Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's recent visit to Beijing from September 8 to September 11 marks a significant milestone in China-Spain relations. This visit, highly anticipated by both nations, symbolizes a journey of friendship and cooperation.
It's uncommon for a prime minister to make official visits to a country in consecutive years. This, coupled with the frequent high-level exchanges between the leadership of both nations, sets a positive tone for the next 50 years of China-Spain relations.
The importance of bilateral dialogues and the tangible benefits of practical cooperation between China and European countries serve as a model for friendly international interactions. Fostering relations with the Chinese mainland has consistently been a priority in the foreign policy of successive Spanish governments.
'Friendship with China' is not only a cross-party consensus within Spain's political circles but also a widely recognized public sentiment across Spanish society.
Spain Benefiting from Bilateral Relations
Many Spanish people vividly remember when China purchased a substantial amount of government bonds, helping to revitalize Spain's economy during the severe impact of the international financial crisis.
The comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain has always been more than just a formality. Over the past decade, the world's longest Yiwu-Madrid freight railway has been delivering Spanish signature goods like jamĂłn, wine, and olive oil to Chinese households, contributing to new trade records year after year.
In 2023 alone, the bilateral trade value reached $48.6 billion, making China Spain's largest trading partner outside the European Union. Chinese enterprises and investments have been widely welcomed in Spain and continue to grow sustainably.
Beyond business, cultural exchanges have flourished. Earlier this year, two giant pandas, Jin Xi and Zhu Yu, arrived in Madrid, receiving a warm welcome from the Spanish public.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
