The Second China-Spain Mayors' Dialogue provides a platform for Yantai to deepen friendly exchanges with Spanish cities. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The Second China-Spain Mayors' Dialogue in Yantai, East China's Shandong province, has strengthened sub-national cooperation between China and Spain, bringing together over 100 officials and representatives from 44 cities.

Held from Aug 27 to 29, the event featured an opening ceremony, four themed sub-forums, and the "Remarkable Yantai" premium products exhibition. At the opening ceremony, distinguished guests delivered speeches, including senior officials from Chinese and Spanish friendship and legislative institutions.

Spanish guests tour the on-site exhibition featuring Yantai's premium geographical indication products and intangible cultural heritage, speaking highly of the displays. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The four sub-forums focused on market connectivity, low-carbon development, digital innovation, and cultural exchange, with over 40 city representatives reaching broad consensus on bilateral local cooperation.

An on-site exhibition showcased Yantai's high-quality geographical indication products and intangible cultural heritage items, winning widespread recognition from Spanish guests.

The delegation also visited local cultural blocks to experience Yantai's blend of historical heritage and technological vitality.

As an ancient starting point of the Maritime Silk Road, Yantai has maintained strong ties with Spanish sister cities in trade, investment, agriculture, culture, and education. Its trade with Spain hit 7.15 billion yuan ($1 billion) in 2025, up 161.7 percent year-on-year, and reached 3.06 billion yuan in the first seven months of 2026.

The dialogue serves as a key platform for exchanges between Chinese and Spanish cities, supporting Yantai's high-level opening-up and green, low-carbon, high-quality development.