Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called on the European Union (EU) to rethink its plan to impose tariffs of up to 36% on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs). During a visit to China on Wednesday, Sanchez advocated for a compromise between the EU and China to avoid escalating trade tensions.
No Need for a Trade War
Speaking at a press conference near Shanghai, Sanchez emphasized the need for diplomacy over conflict, stating, “We don’t need another war, in this case, a trade war.” The European Commission had proposed the tariffs last month, citing concerns over market competition, but Sanchez highlighted the importance of building “bridges” between the EU and China.
Push for Negotiation and Balanced Trade
Sanchez’s remarks follow Beijing’s recent efforts to renegotiate the proposed tariffs. During his state visit, which included meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Sanchez expressed Spain’s desire to enhance trade relations with China, particularly in green and innovative industries, while avoiding geopolitical tensions.
“We want to consolidate growth in trade relations and investment with China,” Sanchez noted, adding that trade relations need to remain “balanced.”
Growing Tensions Between China and the EU
Sanchez’s comments come as China and the EU have increasingly clashed over trade, technology, and national security issues. The EU’s proposed tariffs on Chinese EVs reflect broader concerns about competition in the growing electric vehicle market, but Sanchez remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution.
Source: news.rthk.hk
