Two urgent issues shape Türkiye’s current priorities on the world stage: aligning with Europe and rallying support around a peace framework for Ukraine. The visit of Spain’s president, Pedro Sánchez, is a strategic move that serves both aims. Madrid may not be a global heavyweight, but as the head of the European Union, its outreach carries significant weight. Sánchez’s planned July engagement with Chinese leadership signals Beijing’s intensified interest in shaping Europe’s stance amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine and Russia.
Across the agreed agenda, monotony is avoided and Beijing’s focus is reinforced. Sánchez is slated to meet three key Chinese leaders in a single day: the president, Xi Jinping; the premier, Li Qiang; and the president of the National People’s Assembly, Zhao Leji. The dialogue emphasizes that Moncloa could become the first European capital to consult Xi after the peace proposal is unveiled and after Xi’s visit to Vladimir Putin in Russia.
In recent years, China’s diplomacy has shifted its gaze toward Europe after a period of restrictive COVID policies and internal upheavals. A rapid sequence of high-level exchanges with leaders from Germany, Spain, France, and Italy, along with top EU officials, contrasts with Washington’s stance amid various disputes. This backdrop frames Beijing’s push to maintain balanced relations with Brussels while navigating the United States’ reactions to geopolitical frictions.
torpedoed links
The Ukraine conflict has strained ties between Beijing and Brussels, presenting a setback for China as it seeks to preserve ties with Europe while avoiding outright alienation. American allies in Brussels have sometimes pressed for a more autonomous European policy, while others advocate closer alignment with U.S. strategies. China’s diplomatic efforts and public speeches reflect a clear aim to steer Europe away from relying solely on Washington. Emphasized justifications include economic opportunities in gas and arms dealings, alongside broader geopolitical considerations, as Beijing frames the Ukraine situation as a test of its willingness to engage with Europe on equal terms while signaling Washington’s influence should be moderated.
It seems unlikely that Sánchez’s Madrid trip will unveil new Ukrainian breakthroughs. Europe’s strategic discipline suggests familiar themes will recur in conversations with Xi, with officials recounting past positions on ethics, sovereignty, and the prohibition of nuclear weapons, while acknowledging China’s moves toward a more constructive role. The public debate in Europe continues to contrast Beijing’s stated efforts with the broader scrutiny from Washington, highlighting a complex balance of interests across the Atlantic.
Europe’s “best friend”
Spain represents another doorway in China’s effort to find common ground with Europe. A nation famed for its diverse culture—from bullfights to flamenco and successful football leagues—has historically moved toward constructive engagement with Beijing. Spain helped shape post-Tiananmen conversations and has often been viewed as a cooperative partner within Europe. The 2018 Madrid summit left a positive impression, and current discussions are expected to revisit that sentiment as cooperation in various sectors continues to unfold in a post-pandemic setting.
For China, reconciling strong ties with Europe and its vocal support for Moscow is no small feat. The relationship is shaped not only by geopolitics but also by economics, including stalled investments since the 2020 agreement pause after many rounds of talks. Sanctions linked to human rights concerns and the war in Ukraine have added friction, but under Europe’s looming presidency, there is an opening to ease tensions and normalize relations with Brussels while navigating the sensitive balance with Moscow.