Sánchez, Xi align on global order, warn against ‘law of the jungle’

By José Miguel Blanco

Beijing, Apr 14 (EFE).- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday aligned on defending the international order and warned against a drift toward the «law of the jungle,» in remarks seen as aimed at US President Donald Trump.

The two leaders met at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People in their fourth meeting in four years, where they discussed the geopolitical situation and signed an agreement elevating bilateral dialogue to the highest level.

The agreement places Spain among China’s closest European partners, alongside countries such as France and Germany.

They also oversaw the signing of 15 more pacts, including several aimed at facilitating exports of Spanish agri-food products to China.

Economic ties featured prominently in the discussions, with Sánchez calling for efforts to reduce the significant trade deficit that both Spain and the European Union maintain with China.

However, the Middle East crisis, and uncertainty surrounding negotiations between the United States and Iran, dominated much of the conversation.

‘Right side of history’

Sánchez has repeatedly condemned the attack on Iran, arguing it violated international law, similar to what he has described as Israel’s conduct in Gaza and Lebanon.

Xi echoed the sentiment, saying China and Spain stand on the right side of history at a time when international law is being «gravely undermined.»

Sánchez also used similar language, warning that peace and stability are being «undermined.»

Both leaders further characterized what they see as a shift toward «the law of the jungle» in global affairs.

While Xi used the phrase during the meeting, Sánchez repeated it during the press conference that followed.

Trump and Netanyahu

In his remarks to journalists, Sánchez repeatedly referred to «significant actors» attacking the international order and warned that defending international law often leads to threats from those who violate it.

The comments were also interpreted as indirect references to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Sánchez said middle powers such as Spain can help defend the international order but argued that major powers, including China, should take a leading role in promoting peace.

He urged Beijing to become more actively involved in mediating conflicts in Iran, Gaza, the West Bank and Ukraine, as well as addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty and inequality in cooperation with partners including the European Union.

Bilateral agreements

Sánchez also held meetings with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.

Alongside Li, Sánchez presided over the inking of bilateral agreements, formally signed by Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, covering trade, education and cultural cooperation.

The agreements will facilitate Spanish exports of pistachios, dried figs, pork protein products, and certain fertilizers, while also strengthening protection of geographical indications and establishing cooperation mechanisms on avian influenza.

Sánchez also conveyed Spain’s willingness to host the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) on the Canary Island of La Palma, highlighting the country’s bid to host the international scientific project.

Earlier, the Spanish prime minister met Chinese investors from various sectors to promote Spain as a business destination.

His economic agenda in Beijing will conclude Wednesday with meetings with representatives of innovative companies and EU-China Chamber of Commerce President Jens Eskelund. EFE

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