Speaking at Tsinghua University, Sanchez said trade flows between China and the EU were “imbalanced” and called on Chinese authorities to open their markets to address a widening deficit. “We need China to open up so that Europe does not have to close itself off,” he said, adding that the deficit grew by 18 percent last year and posed risks over the medium to long term.

Sanchez’s visit, his fourth to China in four years, comes as Madrid seeks to position itself as a bridge between Beijing and the 27-member EU amid signs of strain in transatlantic relations. Recent tariff measures and policy shifts under Donald Trump have prompted several Western governments to pursue closer economic engagement with China.

Spain recorded a trade deficit of 42.3 billion euros ($49.1 billion) with China last year, with Sanchez noting that the shortfall accounts for 74 percent of the country’s overall trade deficit. Spain’s population of roughly 50 million contrasts with China’s more than 1.4 billion, underscoring the structural imbalance in bilateral trade.

The Spanish government is seeking improved access for agricultural and industrial exports and exploring opportunities for joint ventures in the technology sector. Officials also aim to attract Chinese investment into Spain and secure access to critical raw materials.

During the visit, Sanchez is scheduled to tour facilities linked to Xiaomi and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, before holding talks with senior Chinese leaders including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.

The trip follows a period of diplomatic friction with Washington after Trump threatened to reduce trade ties with Spain, citing Madrid’s refusal to allow use of its military bases for U.S. strikes against Iran, a key Chinese economic partner.

Spain’s exports to China rose 6.8 percent in 2025, according to government data, reflecting strengthened bilateral engagement. During Sanchez’s previous visit in April 2025, Beijing agreed to expand market access for Spanish products including pork and cherries.

Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning described Spain as “an important partner of China within the EU,” signaling Beijing’s willingness to deepen bilateral cooperation.

A wave of cautious optimism is spreading across global semiconductor and automotive industries as reports surface suggesting that chipmaker Nexperia may soon resume shipments from its Chinese facilities.

Though neither the Dutch government nor Nexperia has officially commented, the potential move signals progress toward stability in the international chip supply chain, which has been under pressure for months due to trade restrictions.

The semiconductor sector, vital for car manufacturers like Ford, General Motors, and Honda, has faced significant supply disruptions in recent years.

The anticipated resumption of Nexperia shipments could bring relief to automakers worldwide, helping them meet growing demand and maintain production targets.

Industry experts view this development as a positive sign that nations are moving toward more collaborative, solution-oriented discussions around technology trade and manufacturing.

The Netherlands released a statement emphasizing ongoing communication with China and other international partners. The country reiterated its commitment to finding a “constructive solution” that ensures both economic balance and technological cooperation.

This approach highlights the importance of dialogue and partnership in managing complex global trade relationships, especially in sectors as essential as semiconductors.

Nexperia, a company owned by China’s Wingtech, has been vocal about its desire to see tensions de-escalate. A company spokesperson reaffirmed that Nexperia remains committed to stability and innovation in the global tech ecosystem.

The company has consistently advocated for fair trade practices that allow technology and innovation to flow freely across borders, benefiting economies and consumers alike.

The semiconductor industry plays a critical role in modern economies, powering everything from smartphones and computers to electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.

The potential reopening of Nexperia’s supply channels marks a hopeful turning point in ensuring a steady supply of chips to industries that depend heavily on them.

This would not only stabilize production but also inspire confidence in global manufacturers navigating post-pandemic supply chain challenges.

As the chip industry recovers, many nations are working together to strengthen supply networks and reduce dependency bottlenecks.

The Netherlands’ balanced diplomacy and its efforts to maintain dialogue with China demonstrate how collaboration can overcome trade friction.

A renewed partnership between European and Asian industries could also set a positive precedent for future global trade relations.

Automakers, who have faced months of uncertainty, see this development as a chance to regain momentum. A stable chip supply means smoother production cycles, timely deliveries, and sustained innovation in vehicle technology.

For consumers, this could translate into greater availability of advanced vehicles, including electric and hybrid models that rely heavily on semiconductor components.

Despite previous challenges, the resilience of the tech and automotive industries has remained strong. Companies have adapted, diversified their suppliers, and invested in domestic chip manufacturing.

Nexperia’s potential return to global operations reinforces this resilience and symbolizes a gradual return to equilibrium across interconnected markets.

In the broader picture, this positive shift supports the idea that diplomacy, cooperation, and innovation can coexist to strengthen global progress.

As governments and corporations prioritize dialogue over division, industries dependent on technology and manufacturing can continue to thrive.

The story of Nexperia underscores the power of collaboration in creating a balanced, sustainable, and forward-looking economic environment.

Despite global economic challenges, the summit emphasized unity, resilience, and mutual growth, setting a hopeful tone for the future of the Asia-Pacific region.

The joint declaration adopted by APEC leaders underlined the importance of shared benefits in trade and the collective responsibility to create a fair and balanced economic order.

The meeting, hosted by South Korea, saw active participation from major economies including China, Japan, and the United States, reflecting a growing determination to strengthen cooperation amid shifting global trade dynamics.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, and other regional leaders expressed optimism about revitalizing trade partnerships and exploring new opportunities in artificial intelligence, green energy, and demographic innovation.

Xi proposed the establishment of a World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, a visionary step aimed at fostering global collaboration in technology while encouraging ethical AI development.

The summit’s closing remarks highlighted the Asia-Pacific region’s resilience in navigating economic pressures and political complexities.

South Korea’s leadership, under President Lee, demonstrated a balanced diplomatic approach, welcoming China’s cooperation while maintaining constructive ties with the United States.

This approach reinforced the country’s role as a bridge for dialogue, peace, and trade stability in the region.

President Lee Jae-myung expressed confidence that Asia-Pacific nations could overcome current trade disruptions by working together with transparency and mutual trust.

He emphasized that the region must move beyond competition and build frameworks that promote innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable prosperity for all member nations.

China’s participation in the summit carried a message of collaboration and openness, with Xi Jinping reassuring partners that Beijing seeks shared enrichment, not dominance.

His announcement that China will host APEC 2026 in Shenzhen was met with enthusiasm, symbolizing continuity in dialogue and cooperation.

The move is expected to further strengthen ties between Asian economies and accelerate initiatives in digital transformation, clean energy, and cultural exchange.

The meeting also spotlighted South Korea’s growing influence as a regional mediator. President Lee’s vision of “balanced diplomacy” focuses on fostering peaceful engagement, supporting open trade routes, and promoting technological advancement through joint ventures.

His call for deeper collaboration with China on North Korea-related issues underscored South Korea’s dedication to peace and regional stability.

Throughout the summit, leaders discussed key topics including demographic change, digital innovation, and AI-driven economic models.

These forward-looking discussions reflected APEC’s shift toward a future-ready agenda, where technology and sustainability go hand in hand to shape a stronger global economy.

The absence of tension-filled rhetoric and the focus on mutual progress made this year’s summit one of the most constructive in recent memory.

The dialogue between President Xi and President Lee further symbolized a renewed spirit of cooperation. Both leaders expressed interest in expanding cultural, trade, and educational exchanges to deepen understanding and foster goodwill between their nations.

Analysts viewed this as a sign of growing optimism in the Asia-Pacific community despite ongoing geopolitical complexities.

The APEC 2025 Summit ultimately served as a reminder that collaboration and respect for diversity are the true engines of progress.

With countries reaffirming their shared vision for inclusive growth, digital innovation, and sustainability, the region stands poised for a new era of prosperity and partnership.

His visit also reflected Jordan’s growing diplomatic role in supporting peace, innovation, and regional stability.

According to the Jordan News Agency (JNA), Crown Prince Hussein met with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Speaker of the UK House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle, and Chair of the International Development Committee Sarah Champion.

The discussions highlighted a shared commitment to building on decades of friendship and collaboration between Amman and London.

During the meetings, the crown prince expressed Jordan’s deep appreciation for the UK’s recent decision to recognize the State of Palestine — a move he described as a “significant and courageous step toward justice and peace.”

He emphasized that this recognition represents a moral and diplomatic milestone in advancing the two-state solution, which remains the cornerstone of regional peace efforts.

Prince Hussein commended the UK for standing on the side of fairness and humanity, especially at a time when the region continues to face immense humanitarian challenges.

He urged the international community to intensify efforts to implement all stages of the Gaza peace agreement and ensure the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid. “The priority must be to alleviate the suffering of civilians and ensure sustainable peace and stability,” he said.

The crown prince also highlighted Jordan’s continued advocacy for the Palestinian people, reaffirming Amman’s steadfast position under the leadership of King Abdullah II.

He praised the crucial work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), describing it as a “lifeline” that provides hope, education, and essential support for millions of displaced Palestinians. He called on the global community to strengthen its backing for the agency to ensure that vital humanitarian operations continue uninterrupted.

Beyond the political dialogue, Crown Prince Hussein’s visit reflected Jordan’s forward-looking approach to bilateral relations, particularly in areas of technology, innovation, and education.

He expressed Jordan’s readiness to deepen partnerships in these fields, noting that collaboration with the UK could help unlock opportunities for young people, promote digital transformation, and support sustainable economic growth in both nations.

In his meeting with UK parliamentary leaders, Prince Hussein lauded the long-standing cooperation between Jordan and the UK, which has spanned decades of trust and shared values.

He noted that both countries share a common vision for promoting stability, development, and tolerance across the Middle East. The talks also explored expanding educational exchange programs and fostering private-sector collaboration to create new opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Jordan’s ambassador to the UK, Manar Dabbas, attended the meetings and underscored that the visit reinforces the deep political and people-to-people ties between the two kingdoms.

The crown prince’s visit also included a stop at South Bank Technical College, where he met representatives from the global education company Pearson.

Accompanied by his wife, Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein, he explored how educational innovation can bridge skill gaps and empower youth to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market. His engagement underscored his strong belief in investing in human capital as a foundation for progress and prosperity.

Throughout the day, Prince Hussein’s discussions in London reflected a positive and forward-looking vision for Jordan’s international partnerships. His focus on youth, technology, and education mirrors Jordan’s growing global image as a hub for innovation and reform in the Arab world.

By commending the UK’s recognition of the Palestinian state and emphasizing humanitarian and developmental cooperation, the crown prince highlighted Jordan’s role as a bridge between the Arab world and the international community.

His visit symbolized a message of hope — one rooted in diplomacy, compassion, and the pursuit of lasting peace and progress.

In reaffirming Jordan’s enduring friendship with the UK, Prince Hussein showcased his generation’s commitment to building a future defined by dialogue, partnership, and shared prosperity.

His words and actions throughout the visit reflected Jordan’s unwavering belief in peace through justice — a principle that continues to guide the nation’s foreign policy and its contributions to regional stability.