'Trade war benefits no one,' Spanish premier tells Chinese vice president
During meeting with Chinese Vice President Han in Madrid, Sanchez calls for 'open trade' and 'economic openness'
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez
ISTANBUL
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Wednesday warned against trade war, calling for "open trade" and "economic openness."
During a meeting with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng at the Moncloa Palace in Madrid, Sanchez called for a "joint" response to major global challenges such as climate emergency and development financing based on international law and principles of the UN Charter, according to a statement issued by the Spanish government.
"Both leaders also discussed the current context of trade tensions. In this regard, Pedro Sanchez stressed that a trade war benefits no one. He highlighted that Spain supports an international order based on rules, free trade, and economic openness," the statement said.
"He also reaffirmed the need to defend the multilateral order," the statement added.
Sanchez also reiterated the "importance" of sustaining trust- and respect-based relations between the EU and China.
"In the area of bilateral relations, Pedro Sanchez expressed his willingness to continue strengthening collaboration and ties between Spain and China, working toward a positive agenda based on mutual respect and reciprocity," the statement further read.
Sanchez and Han signed an Action Plan to draw a roadmap for advanced cooperation through 2028, with joint initiatives in key areas such as the economy, trade and investment, agriculture and fisheries, science, technology, innovation, green development, and societal exchange.
"The two leaders also discussed economic relations and the investment and business opportunities between the two countries. Specifically, the prime minister emphasized that, although trade relations have grown substantially, a certain imbalance remains," the statement said and added: "Pedro Sanchez highlighted the great potential for collaboration in sectors where China is at the forefront, such as automotive, batteries, photovoltaic energy, and green hydrogen."
Spanish King Felipe VI is also expected to receive Vice President Han on Thursday, according to the El Mundo newspaper.
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