45 Years of Bilateral Relations between Spain and China: A View from Beijing

23 - 03 - 2018

 

On March 23th, 2018, Tsinghua Ambassador Talks welcomed His Excellency Mr. Alberto Carnero Fernandez, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to the People’s Republic of China, who delivered an interactive lecture on Tsinghua Campus about the “45 Years of Bilateral Relations between Spain and China: A View from Beijing.” The lecture was followed by a Q&A session.

 

His Excellency started his presentation by giving an overview of the Spanish history. He highlighted the crucial need to learn about History in order to understand the reality of today's world.

During his talk, the Ambassador pointed out the comprehensive strategic partnership between Spain and China. This partnership continues to deepen exchanges and cooperation. In fact, the two countries enjoy great progress in their trade relations. Spain is today China's seventh largest trading partner in the EU, and China is Spain's largest trading partner outside the EU.

The Ambassador concluded his lecture by stating the current challenges that the European Union is facing. First, for some countries, Europe is no longer an attractive project as the Brexit illustrate. Second, Europe is facing the rise of populism. Third, the security issue closely linked to the raise of terrorism. Fourth, the challenge of nationalism, that is not only a European challenge but also a global issue. According to His Excellency, it is through trade and open economies that these challenges can be addressed.