On July 8, 2003, Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing held talks with visiting Spanish Foreign Minister Ana Palacio at the foreign ministry building.

Li spoke positively of the current state of bilateral relations. He said that bilateral relations had developed smoothly since the establishment of diplomatic links 30 years ago. In recent years, the two nations had deepened mutual political understanding, enlarged economic and trade cooperation, and enhanced cultural, educational and technological exchanges. China praised the Spanish government for adhering to the One China policy and actively implementing the "Asian-Pacific Plan" which focused on China. China is willing to take the opportunity of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and promote bilateral relations to a higher level through joint efforts.

Palacio agreed with Li’s assessment of bilateral relations. She said the Spanish government valued relations with China and hoped to strengthen cooperation with China in politics, economy and trade, culture, science and tourism. She congratulated China on its current success in combating severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and believed China would win final success. The Spanish government decided to provide assistance to China worth 229,000 euro to support its fight against SARS.

The two sides also exchanged views on international issues of common concern.