The Forbes House Private Club has received this Friday, May 9 to the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China in Spain, Yao Jingwhich has reviewed the international situation, which represents the country of Xi Jinping for the world and economic opportunities with Spain. Jing, who has been ambassador to Spain since September 2023 – after having occupied diplomatic positions in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan – has stressed that Spain “is a great partner and very important for China.”
The ambassador has also highlighted the strategic role of Spain as a natural bridge between China, Europe and Latin America, a region with which Beijing maintains increasing interests. In this context, he remarked that cooperation between the two countries represents important challenges, but also great opportunities. “The collaboration between China and Spain poses very important challenges”he said, highlighting China’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation in multiple areas.
Yao Jing also expressed words of appreciation towards Spanish society: “People in Spain and your lifestyle are very open and cozy, especially inclusive,” he said, praising the cultural openness and hospitality of the Spanish people. Asked on the issue of tariffs and commercial tensions, the ambassador did not elude the issue and described it as a “real problem at a very complex historical moment.” However, he recalled that it is not the first time that China faces external economic pressures, and that the country has always been willing to build relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.
“China builds relationships with everyone, also with the United States”he said, and added that Beijing is willing to negotiate, but “first the first”: only on the basis of equality a credible and durable dialogue can be established. Finally, Yao addressed a key issue for the future of international relations: the ecological transition. He acknowledged that it is a global challenge: “Our challenges towards the green transition are important to everyone,” reiterating China’s commitment in the fight against climate change.
In the same way and in an indirect reference to Washington, he added: “We hope that the United States rebuilds its policies”manifesting his desire for greater alignment between the great powers to face the environmental challenges.
