China appeals to EU in trade conflict

Peking (dpa) – China has called on the EU to cooperate amid the ongoing trade dispute. At a meeting with Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in Beijing, President Xi Jinping stated that China and the EU should work together to protect the international trade environment and resist unilateral and abusive practices in order to uphold international rules and order. In a trade war, there are no winners, and one isolates oneself, Xi explained according to the official news agency Xinhua.

Sánchez stated after the meeting in front of media representatives: “We have always advocated for negotiations and a mutually agreeable solution to a crisis like the current trade crisis.” Based on this, a door to dialogue is open. He is confident that the world needs both China and the United States, Sánchez said.

The Spaniard is the first head of government from an EU country to visit China since the tariff decisions by US President Donald Trump and the escalation in the trade dispute. While Trump has temporarily put certain tariffs against the EU on hold, he has increased the surcharges on goods from China, which now stand at 145 percent.

Like many other EU countries, Spain has a significant trade deficit with China. Sánchez emphasized that China must hear Spain’s and Europe’s demands for more balanced relations.

Chinese companies invest in Spain

During his recent visit to Beijing last autumn, the leftist politician advocated for building “bridges between the European Union and China.” Chinese companies have been investing in Spain for some time, which, with its low energy costs, has also attracted major car manufacturers and is becoming a hub for Chinese companies.

The communist government is trying to position itself as a reliable and stable partner amid the turbulence in international trade triggered by Trump. According to media reports, a high-level visit from EU representatives to Beijing could also be on the agenda in July. As reported by the “South China Morning Post,” a trip by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa is in planning.

The US is likely to scrutinize the exchange between China and Europe critically. Even before Sánchez’s arrival in Beijing, there was criticism from Washington. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned against turning towards China. “That would be cutting your own throat,” he said. (April 11)