Xi warns Spain on EU protectionism

Chinese President Xi Jinping is pressuring Spain to oppose new European Union measures designed to strengthen European companies. During a meeting in Beijing, Xi warned Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez that the EU is becoming too protectionist, which could hurt trade and political ties between China and the bloc. The warning is a direct attempt by Beijing to influence EU policy through a key member state. The EU's push for greater economic sovereignty and reduced dependency on Chinese imports is facing significant diplomatic pushback.