Spain and China Strengthen Ties
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's four visits to China's President Xi Jinping in as many years spark EU resentment as Germany and France push for a tougher approach
Spain and China are strengthening their relationship, with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visiting China's President Xi Jinping four times in as many years. This development has raised concerns among some EU partners who view China as a strategic rival and possible geopolitical threat to the EU.
The strengthening of ties between Spain and China was recently showcased at Barcelona's La Merce cultural festival, where Shanghai was invited as the city of honour. Shanghai Vice Mayor Lu Shan spoke at the festival's opening ceremony, highlighting the shared cultural spirit between China and Catalonia.
Sanchez has urged the EU to improve relations with China since Donald Trump's re-election two years ago. However, this move has sparked resentment among some EU partners, particularly Germany and France, who are pushing for a more aggressive approach towards China. They seek to give Brussels the power to shut out subsidised Chinese competitors from the EU market.
The EU's approach to China is becoming increasingly divided, with some member states selecting strategic partners that they believe suit their national needs, even if that alienates or irritates fellow member states. This has raised concerns about the unity of the EU and its ability to present a united front in its dealings with China.
## Why it matters The strengthening of ties between Spain and China has significant implications for the EU's approach to China. With some member states viewing China as a strategic rival and possible geopolitical threat, the EU's unity and ability to present a united front are being tested. As the EU navigates its relationships with global powers, the actions of individual member states like Spain will be closely watched.
The EU's approach to China is also influenced by the unpredictable and at times aggressive policy of President Trump on trade and defence. As the EU seeks to navigate this complex geopolitical landscape, the actions of individual member states will play a crucial role in shaping the EU's overall approach to China.
## What happens next As the EU continues to grapple with its approach to China, the actions of individual member states like Spain will be closely watched. With Germany and France pushing for a tougher approach, it remains to be seen how the EU will balance its relationships with China and other global powers. One thing is certain, however: the EU's approach to China will have significant implications for the unity and effectiveness of the EU in the years to come.
