Spanish PM Sánchez urges China to take larger role in global affairs

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has said that China should take on a more significant role in addressing global challenges, including climate change, security, defence, and the fight against inequality.

Speaking at Tsinghua University in Beijing, Sánchez said that amid a weakening of US leadership, Europe must “redouble its efforts” in key international areas, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

He said China could play a more active role in combating climate change, advancing global health, regulating artificial intelligence, and addressing arms control issues.

Spanish PM also called for respect for international law and an end to conflicts in Lebanon, Iran, the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and Ukraine.

Sánchez is on his fourth visit to China in the past four years.

The trip comes amid growing engagement between several Western countries and Beijing, despite ongoing trade and political differences.

He is expected to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 14, with discussions focusing primarily on geopolitical issues and trade and economic cooperation.

Separately, Sánchez noted that China accounts for around 74% of Spain’s trade deficit and expressed Madrid’s interest in boosting exports of agricultural and industrial goods to rebalance trade.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov