Spanish media discusses Spanish king's visit to China after 18 years: aimed at strengthening political and economic relations between the two countries
The purpose of this visit is to strengthen the political and economic relations between the two countries, "said the Spanish newspaper" El Pais ". Queen Letizia, Foreign Minister Alvarez, and Minister of Economy, Trade, and Enterprise Carlos Querbo will also accompany the king to visit China.
On the 3rd, spokesperson Mao Ning of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs introduced that this is the first state visit to China by King Felipe VI since his accession to the throne, and also the second visit to China by the King of Spain after 18 years, which is of great significance. During the visit, President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Chairman Zhao Leji will respectively meet with King Felipe VI to exchange views on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of common concern.
The purpose of this state visit to China is to put an end to the intensive diplomatic agenda of the Spanish government over the past few months. The Spanish head of state will visit the western Chinese city of Chengdu and the capital city of Beijing, with the visit mainly focusing on the three major areas of politics, economy, and culture. At that time, the two sides will sign multiple agreements to further open up the Chinese market to the Spanish economy. Felipe VI will attend two economic forums in Chengdu and Beijing respectively.
The National News believes that the visit of the Spanish king "takes place against the backdrop of a complex international situation and Beijing playing a key role on the global stage". The report mentioned that China is the world's second-largest economy and is expected to surpass the United States in the near future, while also being one of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. The Financial Times recently quoted Spanish Foreign Minister Alvarez as saying, "Asia is a region where Spain previously lacked a historic presence. If you want to have a truly global foreign policy, you must engage in dialogue with all countries, especially China and India
Reuters believes that despite multiple warnings from the United States, Spain is still actively seeking to strengthen economic ties with China. Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez has visited China three times in the past three years and stated that Spain does not support the EU imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. In addition, multiple investment projects from China in Spain have been confirmed to have landed, including CATL's battery factory and Far East Energy's renewable energy project.