Xi Vows to Boost Imports From Spain

Chinese President Xi Jinping has vowed to increase imports from Spain and deepen collaboration with Madrid in Latin America, amid rising tensions with Europe.

This is the first visit by a Spanish monarch to China since 2007. (Photo: Xie Huanchi Xinhua) 

Xi made the pledge during a meeting with Spain's King Felipe in Beijing, South China Morning Post reported.

“China is willing to import more high-quality products from Spain, explore cooperation potential in emerging fields such as new energy, the digital economy, and artificial intelligence, expand mutual investment, and create more landmark projects,” Xi said at the Great Hall of the People, according to state news agency Xinhua.

“Both sides can also complement each other’s strengths and jointly explore third-party markets such as Latin America.”

It is the first visit by a Spanish monarch to China since 2007. Felipe’s three-day state visit included a stop in Chengdu, Sichuan province, for the Spain-China Business Forum.

During his talks with Xi, Felipe said Chinese investment had “significantly promoted” Spain’s economic development and green transition, according to Xinhua. He added that Madrid hopes to strengthen cooperation with Beijing in trade, industry, technology, and green sectors.

“We believe that the friendship between China and Spain undoubtedly benefits the people of both countries and aligns with their long-standing history and global vision,” King Felipe said.