KUNSHAN, China, Sept 11 (Askume) – Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Wednesday there was no need for a trade war between the European Union and China and both sides should work hard to reach a compromise on planned tariffs.
Sanchez made the remarks at an event held at the Mondragon Industrial Park in Kunshan, adjacent to Shanghai.
He was talking about the European Commission’s move to launch a counter-probe into Chinese-made electric cars and the EU’s consideration of imposing hefty taxes. The EU has revised or reduced some tariffs in its final tariff proposal , which member states are expected to vote on in October.
This week, China renewed its efforts to negotiate the removal of proposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
Asked if Spain would reconsider its vote on EU tariffs on Chinese-made electric cars, Sanchez said: “I have to say clearly that we have to reconsider our position, all of us. Not just member states.
“We don’t need another war, in this case a trade war. I think we need to build bridges between the EU and China, and from Spain’s side we will take a constructive approach and reach an agreement between China and the European Commission.
Sanchez met with local businessmen and entrepreneurs at an event before the press conference. He also spoke with local government officials.
He came to China on a regular state visit. During his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday, he also said
He expressed hope that the EU could avoid a trade war with China.
“The Spanish government wants to strengthen trade relations and investment development with China, focusing on green and innovative industries and ensuring that trade and geopolitical tensions do not harm them,” Sanchez said on Wednesday.
“However, as I’ve said before, I think it’s undeniable that there needs to be a balance in these relationships.”
