Archive · 30 Sep 2026
Spain and France Back UK Return, Tougher China Trade Defences
Spain and France said they would welcome Britain returning to the European Union.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the idea very good.
The two leaders also said European countries should work together more strongly when trading with China.
They are concerned that some Chinese companies may compete unfairly with European businesses.
They want Chinese investors to make commitments about sharing technology in important industries, including cars.
Spain and France also want the European Union to be more flexible about its budget.
They worry that large budget cuts could reduce help for farmers and increase inequality.
The leaders made these comments during Macron’s state visit to Spain.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and French President Emmanuel Macron voiced support for Britain rejoining the European Union.
Macron called British Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s reported proposal “excellent news” and a “good decision.”
Sanchez and Macron said Europe should strengthen its trade defences against Chinese competition.
The leaders backed commitments from Chinese investors on technology transfers in strategic industries such as automobiles.
Spain and France urged greater flexibility over EU funding as budget negotiations approach, warning that cuts could hurt farmers and widen inequality.
- Who
- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
- What
- Spain and France expressed support for Britain rejoining the EU and agreed Europe should strengthen trade protections against China.
- When
- Wednesday, September 30; the leaders also discussed EU budget negotiations scheduled for October.
- Where
- Madrid, Spain, during Macron’s first state visit to Spain.
- Why
- They said European unity was needed to address Chinese competition, protect industries, and respond to citizens’ concerns about funding and inequality.
- Main participants
- Pedro Sanchez and Emmanuel Macron
- UK proposal
- Andy Burnham floated the prospect of Britain rejoining the EU
- Trade concern
- European leaders want stronger defences against Chinese competition
- Strategic industry
- Automobiles
- Investor commitments
- Technology-transfer commitments from Chinese investors
- Budget issue
- Spain and France seek more flexibility and additional EU resources
- Potential impact of cuts
- Reduced funding for farmers and greater inequality