Spain's First Female Ambassador to China Shares Cultural Insights

New Perspectives on Spain

Marta Betanzos Roig has made history as Spain's first female ambassador to China in the past 50 years. Recently, she opened up about her experiences and aspirations in an interview, emphasizing her dedication to language and cultural exchanges. For Betanzos, learning Mandarin is more than just a task; it’s a personal challenge that she likens to the art of building with Lego blocks, where each component fits together to form a cohesive structure.

As she embarks on this journey of mastering the language, she is also keen on forging genuine connections with the locals. Her goal is to engage in discussions ranging from casual chats with passersby to deeper conversations about Spain's rich culture. Reflecting on her previous experience as a diplomat in China a decade ago, she acknowledges that this time around, her connection with the language and culture has blossomed into a passion.

At official functions in China, Betanzos stands out in a predominantly male environment. She believes that the fight for a woman’s position in society should not center on power, but rather on freedom—the freedom to choose, to think independently, and to pursue her ambitions. This perspective distinguishes her from many of her diplomatic colleagues.

With the 20th anniversary of the strategic partnership between China and Spain approaching, Betanzos views this milestone as an opportunity for introspection and evaluation. She acknowledges the current complexities in international relations as a moment of uncertainty but insists that this anniversary could also pave the way for future progress and clarity in addressing critical issues.

Betanzos is committed to reshaping the way Spain is perceived in China. While Spanish culture is often synonymous with football, ham, wine, and olive oil, she seeks to emphasize Spain’s advancements in high technology and sophisticated machinery. "We are also a nation that invests heavily in cutting-edge technology, including complex and high-end machinery. We supply these products to China and its burgeoning industries," she stated with pride.

With her deep-rooted commitment to enhancing cultural ties, Betanzos hopes to broaden the narrative around Spain, presenting a multifaceted image that extends beyond its traditional stereotypes. Her proactive approach reflects a new diplomatic strategy aimed at fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between two influential nations.

Betanzos' journey is not merely about occupying an ambassadorial position; it is about embracing her role as a cultural ambassador, eager to connect, learn, and positively shape relations between China and Spain. As she immerses herself in both the language and the nuances of Chinese life, her story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of passion and perseverance in diplomatic service.