China is intensifying its ideological diplomacy in Spain, complementing the traditional governmental interactions through its more covert channels operated by the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC). This department plays a significant role in strengthening ties with political parties and influential elites in various countries, including Spain. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is nearing his fourth visit to China, a move that signifies a deeper engagement between the two countries, although it also raises eyebrows within the European Union due to Spain's increasingly warm relations with Beijing.

The relationship between Spain and China has historically been marked by a certain naivete and has been previously propelled by former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero. Sánchez's upcoming trip and the involvement of Spanish royals signal a growing alignment with Chinese interests, which has become a point of contention within the European political landscape. Concerns have been voiced from the European Union's delegation in Beijing regarding Spain's approach, indicating that the EU is watchful of member states' ties with China, especially as geopolitical tensions rise.

Overall, China's engagement through its ideological diplomacy suggests a strategy aimed at expanding its influence not just through economic means but also by fostering political relationships that may not align with EU values. As Sánchez prepares for his visit, the implications could ripple through both Spanish politics and broader EU-China relations, where the balance of ideological and diplomatic approaches will be crucial in the coming years.