MADRID – Spain is viewing the upcoming high-level talks between the United States and China in Madrid as a vital opportunity to mend its strained relationship with the Trump administration. The discussions will take place just days after Washington publicly criticized Spain’s plan to limit arms shipments to Israel, labeling it as “emboldening terrorists.”
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng have selected Madrid as the venue for these important negotiations. A Spanish government source indicated that Madrid aims to leverage this occasion to strengthen dialogue and address concerns directly with the US delegation.
Tensions between Spain and Washington escalated when Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced restrictions on Spanish ports and airspace for military shipments to Israel. This move, amid ongoing military base cooperation between the two countries, drew sharp rebuke from the US. Additionally, Sanchez’s refusal to meet NATO’s defense spending target sparked threats of tariffs from President Trump.
While Spain’s diplomatic ties with the US have cooled, its relations with China have warmed significantly. Over recent years, Sanchez has visited China multiple times and shifted Spain’s stance on EU tariffs against Chinese electric vehicles, positioning Spain as a key EU interlocutor with Beijing.
Experts suggest that Spain’s hosting of the talks will provide the government a chance to engage with US officials on contentious issues and bolster its diplomatic influence in future negotiations with Washington.