Xi Jinping urges EU cooperation against U.S. tariffs, highlights China-Spain partnership.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday emphasized the need for deeper cooperation between China and the European Union to jointly stand against what he described as “bullying.” He made the remarks during a meeting in Beijing with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who is visiting China.

The statement comes amid an escalating trade dispute with Washington, as U.S. President Donald Trump recently authorized a steep 125% tariff on Chinese exports to the United States.

“In our multiple discussions, we have both agreed that strengthening China-Spain relations with strategic determination and a focus on mutual benefit serves the shared and long-term interests of both sides,” Xi said. “At present, the world is undergoing changes unseen in a century, unfolding at an accelerated pace. Only through unity and coordinated efforts can nations promote global development and prosperity.”

Spain remains one of China’s closest partners within the European Union, with several Chinese companies, including electric vehicle manufacturers, announcing new investments in the country. Both China and Spain had been targets of the broad U.S. tariffs under Trump’s administration, although the duties on Spain have since been suspended.

“There are no winners in a tariff war,” Xi warned. “Defying global trends will only lead to self-isolation.”