HE Yao Jing, the ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Spain, views the situation in Gaza with concern. He emphasizes that lasting peace in the Middle East hinges on formalizing a two-state framework. The diplomat, who assumed his post in October, is in Gran Canaria participating in an event organized by the Confucius Institute to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Spain.
How are relations with Spain? Chinese?
This is a significant question, and it was considered carefully before sharing thoughts. The 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties offers a moment to reflect on what has been achieved and what lies ahead. China and Spain enjoy a deeply connected partnership, especially since March, when the visit of President Pedro Sánchez opened a new phase. Mutual respect and productive cooperation form the bedrock of political ties, and these elements remain central to the relationship.
What is expected from this relationship in the next 50 years?
For China, the Spain relationship is highly valued. It is seen as a strategic partner with which China intends to expand cooperation in economic development and cultural exchange.
Currently, Spain faces governance challenges. How might this political climate affect China’s business interests?
As a diplomat, the ambassador stays informed about domestic developments, but China adheres to a policy of non-interference in other nations’ internal affairs. He wishes the Spanish people and government well and notes that the focus remains on constructive engagement rather than external meddling.
How would you describe China’s current economy and society?
China is navigating the post-pandemic recovery alongside Europe and the wider world. The economy shows resilience, with GDP growth of 5.2 percent in the first three quarters of the year. The large domestic market remains a cornerstone, and continued cooperation with other countries is anticipated to secure a robust future for foreign collaboration.
Although China is the world’s second-largest economy, can it overtake the United States by 2030?
China is a developing country despite its size. GDP per capita is around ten thousand dollars annually, which is lower than many developed economies. The goal is not to mirror the United States but to pursue a practical path of growth and international cooperation. The aim is steady progress, not chasing a distant peak, and the overseas strategy continues with a pragmatic approach.
What is the status of relations with the United States?
To understand the dynamics with the United States, one must consider a decade of evolving ties. China seeks relations based on mutual respect and sovereignty, with a focus on cooperation, shared responsibility, and avoiding punitive actions. Given the size of both nations and their UN Security Council roles, there is a duty to pursue peace and stability through constructive engagement, even as both sides explore different models. Openness to dialogue and a sense of shared obligation are viewed as essential.
What path would China take to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza?
The situation in Gaza is grave and alarming. The underlying causes are widely understood, and China condemns attacks on civilians. Self-defense must be reconciled with international law. The peace process should proceed through the formalization of two states, with a current priority on achieving a ceasefire. Violence does not resolve disputes, and discussions remain the sole route to consensus. China continues to work with partners to bring the parties to the negotiating table, though developments are not always aligned with desired timelines.
Is optimism warranted?
Maintaining optimism is essential because the ongoing violence harms people on both sides. It is not a scenario anyone wants, and a sustainable peace remains the ultimate goal.
A claim from HamasKhalid Meshaal suggested China plans a Taiwan-style escalation. Is this credible?
The ambassador does not know the individual making that assertion, and he views the comparison as unrealistic. Taiwan is viewed as a part of China, and efforts remain focused on peaceful resolution. There are actors who seek to escalate tensions, but China’s policy emphasizes peace and restraint rather than conflict.
Can China be described as a communist country?
Historically, China adopted communism after the founding of the Communist Party in 1921. Since then, the country has pursued socialism with Chinese characteristics. This framework has supported modernization and preserved cultural independence, while China does not seek to export its system abroad. The description reflects a distinctive path rather than a blanket model for others.
Is there a misperception of communism in the West?
The foundations of China’s political system are rooted in democracy, freedom, openness, and rights as outlined in historical documents. That context can lead to misunderstandings in some Western circles, where perceptions may diverge from the country’s stated principles.
What attracts African nations to China’s investments and deals?
Africa is a vast region with significant development needs. China’s approach combines infrastructure projects, such as railways and highways, with professional training and management support. These efforts reflect longstanding friendship and a mutual history of cooperation that began when many African nations sought independence. Now that China has grown, it aims to share its experience and resources to assist African partners in building resilience and opportunity.
Do economic interests carry hidden geostrategic aims?
China does not pursue a sole policy of rivalry. Africa is large, with various players and spheres of influence. Spain, France, the United States and others all have their roles. The goal is shared responsibility among major economies to support Africa’s development without attempting to dominate every region. That pragmatic stance underpins China’s approach to partnership and investment on the continent.
Looking ahead, what challenges shape China’s future?
A large population requires careful management of development, prioritizing domestic demand alongside international cooperation. Key challenges include boosting domestic consumption, addressing regional disparities between eastern prosperity and western development, reducing sensitivity to global economic shifts, and maintaining a peaceful environment. Peace is a prerequisite for sustainable growth, and regional conflicts in places like Ukraine or the Middle East complicate efforts to stabilize international trade and investment. Finally, China remains committed to sustainable development and is transitioning coal power plants toward cleaner energy sources and hydrogen, aligning growth with environmental goals.
What about sustainable development goals and energy transition?
Sustainable development remains a clear priority for China. The country is shifting many coal-fired plants toward cleaner energy sources, including hydrogen, to support a greener and more resilient economy.