After nearly twenty hours in the air, the official plane of the King and Queen of Spain landed in Chengdu, a city in southwestern China that blends tradition with cutting-edge technology. Vice Governor Hu Yun, Chinese Ambassador to Spain Yao Jing, and Spanish Consul General Cándido Creis Estrada were waiting for them there.
The reception was both formal and warm, featuring flowers, formal greetings, and an implicit message of cooperation that set the tone for this state visit, focused on strengthening economic and cultural ties between the two countries.
What image did Queen Letizia project upon her arrival in China?
Queen Letizia once again opted for an all-black outfit, a choice that has become her diplomatic hallmark in recent months.
The mother of Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia wore a belted coat with flowing lines that outlined her silhouette without restricting movement. Underneath, she wore wide-leg pants in the same color, which added elegance without feeling stiff.
The ensemble was completed with a structured Carolina Herrera bag, a cashmere shawl, and high boots. A flawless and understated look.
A journey focused on economy and culture
Felipe VI will lead a business forum aimed at attracting Chinese investment to Spain, a key objective of the trip. Meanwhile, Queen Letizia will have her own agenda, which will be strongly focused on cultural and social matters.
Her activities include a tribute to Antonio Machado in Chengdu and a visit to a nursing home with the Chinese First Lady. She will also visit Beijing Foreign Studies University to promote educational projects and strengthen academic cooperation.
The royal agenda continues in Beijing
After visiting Sichuan, the King and Queen will travel to Beijing for official meetings, a state banquet at the Great Hall of the People, and a concert by the Royal Theater Orchestra.
The trip will conclude with a meeting of the Spain-China Business Committee and a visit by the monarch to the Gestamp Group plant, an example of Spanish industrial dynamism in the Asian country.