Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez Discuss Cooperation

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez conducted an official visit to China from April 11 to April 15, 2026, at the invitation of the Chinese government. During the visit, Sánchez met with top Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, to discuss enhancing bilateral communication and deepening cooperation.

The visit, which marks the fourth time the Spanish Prime Minister has visited China within four years, resulted in the signing of 19 agreements. These agreements are intended to strengthen cooperation between Spain and China across economic, cultural, and scientific-technological sectors.

Diplomatic and Strategic Frameworks

A central outcome of the meetings was the establishment of a Diplomatic Strategic Dialogue Mechanism. This mechanism is designed to provide regularity and planning capacity for high-level meetings between the two nations and will be led by the respective Ministers of Foreign Affairs. According to Spanish government reports, this instrument is similar to those Spain maintains with other major European Union countries, such as Germany and France.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the visit aimed to consolidate mutual trust and send a clear message regarding the deepening of cooperation. He noted that both nations have accommodated each other’s core interests and major concerns regardless of the evolving international landscape. As part of these diplomatic efforts, Spain reaffirmed its commitment to the one-China principle.

Economic Cooperation and Investment

Economic ties were a primary focus of the discussions, with Premier Li Qiang encouraging more capable Chinese enterprises to invest in Spain. The two countries agreed to pursue innovation-driven development to enhance their respective capabilities and confidence in their independently chosen paths.

Prime Minister Sánchez emphasized the necessity for Chinese investments in Spain to be accompanied by specific developmental goals. He conveyed the importance of ensuring that such investments contribute to the development of technological capabilities and knowledge, the strengthening of the Spanish productive sector, integration into local value chains, and the creation of local jobs.

Political and Global Context

The discussions took place against a backdrop of global instability. President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Sánchez pledged closer ties in response to threats to the international order. Premier Li Qiang highlighted the necessity of strengthening cooperation, particularly during periods of global turbulence.

The Chinese side characterized the visit as a great success, noting that the leaders reached new and important common understandings. The agreed-upon strategic communication and the new dialogue mechanisms are intended to ensure more stable and sustainable growth for bilateral relations moving forward.