Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with King Philip VI of Spain.

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with King Philip VI of Spain, who is on a state visit to China, at the People's Palace in Beijing on 12 November.

Xi Jinping said that both China and Spain have a deep historical and cultural heritage. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 50 years ago, the two countries have approached the development of bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, respecting and supporting each other. This has created a model of friendly coexistence and common development between countries with different histories, cultures and social systems. At the same time, both countries play an important role in promoting global openness, cooperation and ensuring international balance and justice.

Xi Jinping stressed that the Spanish royal family has made a significant contribution to the development of Sino-Spanish relations. On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, King Philip VI's state visit is of great significance for the further development of friendly cooperation. China is ready to work with Spain to build a comprehensive strategic partnership with greater strategic resolve, development vitality and international influence.

King Philip VI praised the remarkable development achievements of China in recent years and expressed his conviction that friendly relations between Spain and China would benefit the peoples of both countries.

After the meeting, Xi Jinping and Philip VI witnessed the signing of ten documents on cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, science, technology and education.

Before the meeting, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan held a welcome ceremony for King Philip VI of Spain and Queen Letizia in Tian'anmen Square. Upon the arrival of the King, the guard of honour paid tribute. Xi Jinping and Philip VI took the stage, where a military band played the national anthems of China and Spain, and 21 salvos were fired in Tian'anmen Square. Philip VI, accompanied by Xi Jinping, then performed a parade of the Chinese People's Liberation Army's honor guard.

CMG