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Spain and China Present United Front on Global Stability as Sánchez Meets Xi in Beijing

 

Beijing / 15 April 2026

 

Spain and China have reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation, as Pedro Sánchez met with Xi Jinping during high-level talks aimed at addressing rising global instability.

 

Meeting at the Great Hall of the People, both leaders warned that the post-war international order is under increasing pressure, with conflicts, trade tensions and geopolitical divisions reshaping global relations.

 

President Xi praised Spain’s position on the world stage, stating that both nations should work together to “stand on the right side of history” and resist what he described as a drift towards power-based global politics. He called for stronger cooperation to defend “genuine multilateralism” and oppose a return to unilateral approaches in international affairs.

 

Prime Minister Sánchez echoed those concerns, warning that international law and global institutions are being “very dangerously undermined” at a time when they are most needed. He urged closer collaboration between Spain and China to tackle global challenges, including conflict, economic tensions and climate-related issues.

 

Focus on Global Conflicts and Tensions

The talks took place against the backdrop of multiple international crises, including ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine. Sánchez said discussions with Xi covered the situations in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, as well as broader geopolitical instability.

 

The Spanish leader called for China to play a more active diplomatic role in resolving global conflicts, particularly in sensitive regions such as the Middle East. He stressed that cooperation between major powers is essential to avoid further escalation and instability.

 

The visit also comes amid strained relations between Spain and the United States, following Madrid’s opposition to aspects of US foreign policy in the region. Sánchez defended his diplomatic outreach, stating that engagement with China should not be seen as confrontational but as part of a broader effort to strengthen international dialogue.

 

Trade, Investment and Economic Balance

Economic cooperation formed a central pillar of the visit. Spain is seeking to rebalance its trade relationship with China, with Sánchez highlighting a significant trade deficit and calling for more equitable exchange.

 

A series of agreements — covering sectors such as agrifood exports, transport, infrastructure and renewable energy — are expected to strengthen bilateral ties and open new opportunities for Spanish businesses in the Chinese market.

 

Xi emphasised the importance of expanding collaboration in innovation, green energy and the digital economy, encouraging both countries to deepen economic links and pursue sustainable growth.

 

Strategic Positioning in a Changing World

Sánchez’s visit — his fourth to China in just over three years — reflects Spain’s growing role as a bridge between Europe and China. The Spanish government has increasingly positioned itself as supportive of engagement with Beijing, while also advocating for stronger global governance and adherence to international rules.

 

The trip also aligns with a broader trend of Western nations maintaining dialogue with China despite ongoing concerns over trade imbalances, security issues and global influence.

 

A Call for Multilateral Cooperation

Both leaders concluded their meeting with a shared message: that cooperation, dialogue and respect for international law remain essential in navigating an increasingly complex and uncertain global landscape.