The Costa Blanca is stepping onto the global stage as Alicante strengthens ties with China.
Mayor Luis Barcala has signed a collaboration agreement with Weihai, a coastal city on the Shandong Peninsula with nearly three million residents.
The pact, signed with Weihai’s Mayor, Kong Fanping, is aimed at strengthening ties in business, culture, tourism, and sport. The agreement sets out a roadmap for exchanges in trade, education, and the arts, as well as joint sports projects in football, sailing, swimming, and triathlon.
Barcala described the deal as “a magnificent opportunity to continue projecting Alicante’s international image and opening up new opportunities for the commercial and business development of our city.” He highlighted how the agreement creates new pathways for Alicante companies to tap into the Chinese market, one of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies.
Building bridges: Alicante strengthens ties with China
The partnership will see business delegations travelling in both directions, cultural institutions forming twinning agreements. Sports will also play a key role, with plans for events, competitions, and training initiatives at both grassroots and professional levels.
Eyes on opportunity
During his visit, Barcala also toured companies and institutions in Weihai and across the Shandong region, known for its industrial and maritime strength.
With this agreement, Alicante is not only strengthening its links abroad but also making a clear statement: it’s ready to compete, collaborate, and connect on the international stage.
