THE leaders of China and Spain pledged today to strengthen relations between their countries and to work to safeguard multilateralism at a time of rising instability across the globe.

Speaking in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, Chinese President Xi Jinping told a reception for Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez: “We should strengthen communication, consolidate mutual trust, co-operate closely, oppose the world’s retrogression to the law of the jungle and jointly safeguard genuine multilateralism.” 

Mr Sanchez agreed and said both countries “can contribute to finding solutions to the various trade tensions that exist, to the geopolitical difficulties and complexities of today’s world, to the wars, to the environmental and social challenges that afflict the world.”

Spain is looking to strengthen its political and commercial ties with Beijing. Mr Sanchez has been forthright in his opposition to the illegal and unprovoked war on Iran unleashed by the US and Israel in late February.

The meeting, held during a two‑day visit, comes as Spain pushes for diplomatic solutions to the conflict in Iran. 

Mr Sanchez is also scheduled to meet Chinese Premier Li Qiang and top legislator Zhao Leji before leaving today, underlining the importance of the trip for Spain’s foreign policy.

His fourth visit to China since 2023 came as Spain has taken a more independent stance in the geopolitical arena, including restricting US military access to certain bases during the Iran conflict.

On Monday, Mr Sanchez addressed Tsinghua University, calling on China to take on a greater role in a multilateral world and urging closer EU–China co-operation on peacekeeping and conflict mediation. 

Experts say the visit reflects Madrid’s intention to strengthen economic ties with China, particularly in trade, technology and infrastructure.