Xi Jinping Meets with Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy of Spain
On 16 November 2015 local time, President Xi Jinping met in Antalya, Turkey with Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy of Spain.
Xi Jinping emphasized that Spain is a reliable good friend and important cooperative partner of China within the EU. Over the past 42 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have adhered to mutual respect, mutual trust and mutual understanding, and supported each other’s core interests and major concerns. As this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain, China is willing to, together with Spain, constantly consolidate political mutual trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation and push forward China-Spain comprehensive strategic partnership to a new high. Both sides should intensify personnel exchanges at various levels and in all fields and promote the docking of their development strategies. China welcomes Spain to take full advantage of its advantages in technologies and talents to take an active part in the construction of the “Belt and Road”. The two sides should expand communication between their peoples and people-to-people and cultural exchanges and cement the public opinion foundation of bilateral relationship.
Xi Jinping noted that as an important member of the EU, Spain plays a unique role and exerts significant influence within the EU. As this year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, China is ready to work with the EU to reap early harvest on docking the “Belt and Road” initiative and the Investment Plan for Europe, so as to put into place the China-EU four major partnerships for peace, growth, reform and civilization as early as possible. It is hoped that Spain could continue exerting positive influence in the EU to contribute more to the development of China-EU relations. China stands ready to enhance communication with Spain in hosting the G20 Summit next year.
Mariano Rajoy expressed that China is an important partner of Spain, and the current Spain-China relations maintain a sound momentum of development. Spain-China trade enjoys a huge potential. China is adjusting its economic structure, which is of great significance for world economic development. Spain is ready to, together with China, improve bilateral economic and trade cooperation, deepen the EU-China cooperation and boost communication and coordination on major international and regional issues. Spain supports China in successfully hosting the G20 Summit next year.
Wang Huning, Li Zhanshu, Yang Jiechi, Zhou Xiaochuan and others were present at the meeting.