Xi urges Spain ties to counter ‘law of the jungle’ order

The remarks came during talks in Beijing with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, according to Xinhua, highlighting growing diplomatic coordination between the two countries.

Call to defend multilateral order

Xi said the international system is facing a critical test between the “rule of law and the rule of power,” urging both Beijing and Madrid to work together in support of what he termed “true multilateralism.” His comments pointed to broader concerns about the erosion of global governance norms, without directly naming specific military developments.

Both China and Spain have, however, previously criticised US-Israeli strikes against Iran, describing them as unacceptable and inconsistent with international law.

Diplomatic engagement intensifies

Sanchez’s visit to China, his fourth since taking office, reflects deepening bilateral engagement. The five-day trip follows a recent state visit by Felipe VI, marking renewed momentum in high-level exchanges between the two countries.

The diplomatic activity comes ahead of an anticipated visit by Donald Trump to both China and Spain, underscoring the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Economic ties continue to grow

Trade relations between Spain and China have expanded steadily, with bilateral trade surpassing $55 billion last year. China remains Spain’s largest trading partner outside the European Union, reinforcing the economic dimension of their partnership.

The meeting reflects a shared interest in maintaining stable international relations and economic cooperation amid a period of heightened global uncertainty.