Chinese President Xi Jinping met King Felipe VI of Spain in Beijing on November 12, 2025. This meeting marked the first state visit by a Spanish monarch to China in 18 years. During the talks, Xi emphasized that both nations should strengthen the China Spain Partnership. Moreover, he invited Spain to engage more actively in global development initiatives and international influence.
Following the discussion, the leaders attended a signing ceremony to formalize agreements. These agreements aim to expand cooperation in trade, investment, and cultural exchange. King Felipe’s visit, which took place from November 10 to 13, focused on boosting economic collaboration and strengthening diplomacy. In addition, Spain seeks closer ties with China in green technology, auto parts, and energy sectors. At the same time, China views stronger relations with Spain as a way to diversify its European partnerships.
Spain’s trade deficit with China remains significant, with imports totaling around €45 billion in 2024. Conversely, Spanish exports reached only €7.5 billion, highlighting the imbalance in bilateral trade. Meanwhile, Chinese firms are investing in Spain through battery plants, electric vehicle components, and renewable energy projects. These investments demonstrate how the China Spain Partnership is developing beyond traditional trade.
During the meeting, Xi noted that global change and turbulence require collaboration to maintain peace and development. Similarly, both leaders confirmed a “relationship of trust” and agreed to restart previously stalled investment discussions. In addition, Spain pressed for cooperation in green technologies, electric vehicles, and pork exports to China. These areas are strategically important for Spain, which remains a major pork supplier to the Chinese market.
The visit also signals Spain’s willingness to engage directly with China, even as the EU and U.S. maintain caution. Analysts suggest that this approach may be seen as diverging from broader Western diplomatic alignments. On the other hand, for China, the visit strengthens European diplomacy and opens fresh investment opportunities. Observers further note that it could mark a turning point in the China Spain Partnership within the EU framework.
Looking ahead, Spain may finalize specific investment deals in EV batteries and renewable energy with Chinese firms. Similarly, China likely views the visit as a platform to solidify its European market footprint. Both nations will monitor how signed agreements evolve into concrete business and policy outcomes. However, geopolitical tensions may influence the pace and scope of cooperation in the coming months.
