By SCM Foreign Desk
BEIJING – Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez has sparked fresh debate back home and across the West after cosying up to Chinese President Xi Jinping in a high-stakes Beijing summit.
In a move that’s sure to raise eyebrows from Brussels to Washington, the two leaders declared a new “special relationship” to fight what they’re calling the “erosion of the global order.”
While the rest of the world keeps a wary eye on China’s growing influence, Sanchez and Xi stood shoulder-to-shoulder, pledging to ditch the “law of the jungle” in favour of a new era of global cooperation.
The Beijing Bromance
During the lavish talks, President Xi didn’t hold back on the charm, hailing Spain as a “pivotal partner” and a crucial bridge between Beijing and the European Union.
”Spain plays a vital role in our relations with the EU,” Xi reportedly told the Spanish delegation, calling for Madrid to help steer Europe toward a more stable—and China-friendly—future.
For his part, Sanchez seemed more than happy to play ball. The Spanish leader emphasized the need for “trust and dialogue” while pushing for a “multipolar” world—shorthand for a global scene where the US isn’t the only big dog on the block.
Why Now?
The timing of this diplomatic love-in is critical. With global trade tensions simmering and the war in Ukraine casting a long shadow, Sanchez’s decision to strengthen ties with the Red Dragon is being seen as a bold—some might say risky—bet.
By positioning Spain as China’s “best friend in Europe,” Sanchez is hoping to unlock massive investments, even as other EU nations look to distance themselves from Beijing’s grip.
This meeting comes at a delicate time for European-Chinese relations. The EU is currently walking a tightrope: trying to reduce economic dependency on China (“de-risking”) while avoiding a full-blown trade war.
The “Law of the Jungle” Comment: This phrase is a thinly veiled swipe at unilateralism—essentially accusing Western powers (often the US) of making their own rules. By using this language, Spain is aligning itself with China’s vision of a “multipolar” world.
Spain’s Role: Madrid has traditionally been more open to Chinese investment than hawks in Paris or Berlin. Sanchez is likely looking for a “win” for the Spanish economy, specifically in green tech and infrastructure, where China is a global leader.
EU Strategy: Xi Jinping is actively looking for “weak links” or friendly voices within the EU to prevent the bloc from forming a united, hardline front against China. By praising Spain as an “important partner,” he is effectively using Madrid as a diplomatic wedge.
