Time of establishment of friendly relations: September 2003  

Overview:

Catalonia is one of the 17 autonomous communities in Spain. Located in the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula. Covering an area of 32,114 square kilometers and home to approximately 7.44 million people, Catalonia accounts for around 16 percent of Spain's total population, with most Catalans identifying as Catholic.  

The community comprises four provinces — Barcelona, Lleida, Girona and Tarragona — and 42 counties. Catalonia's economy ranks among the top in Spain and is one of the most economically dynamic areas in Western Europe, with major industries including manufacturing, tourism and financial services. The city of Barcelona is the capital of both Catalonia and the province of Barcelona, and it is also Spain's largest port and second-largest city.

Aside from national defense, foreign affairs and finance, the Catalan government has autonomy over regional affairs, with its own flag, emblem, anthem, and a regional holiday on September 11. The official languages are Catalan and Spanish. The head of the autonomous government is the president, elected by the regional parliament and appointed by the Spanish king.

Relations with Guangdong:

Since establishing friendly relations in 2003, Guangdong and Catalonia have engaged in frequent high-level exchanges and cooperation across sectors like trade, tourism and culture. In 2019, a delegation of presidents and vice-presidents from the Confucius Institutes in Barcelona visited Guangdong, promoting collaboration within the Confucius Institute network. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Guangdong and Catalonia collaborated actively to combat the virus, with Guangdong donating a batch of medical supplies to Catalonia. Departments in both regions have maintained close relations.  

Other friendship cities:

Guangzhou–Valencia; Shenzhen–the city of Barcelona.