Executive Summary

Spain is following a “two-track” approach to technology. On one hand, it gave Huawei a multimillion-dollar contract to store data from judicial wiretaps, a move that has raised concern among allies about possible Chinese access. On the other hand, Spain is working more closely with U.S. companies, such as Microsoft and Amazon Web Services, to build secure data centers and improve cybersecurity.

This strategy of working with both China and the U.S. demonstrates Spain’s interest in retaining some independence as an EU and NATO member. It also creates problems, as this weakens trust with allies, could expose sensitive information from other EU and NATO partners, and increases Spain’s dependence on non-European companies.

Former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is key to this strategy, as he has used his influence to support stronger ties with China and defend Chinese companies, such as Huawei. His stance gives political cover for maintaining the Chinese giant’s contracts and economic ties despite allied and EU warnings.

Spain’s attempt to balance between Washington and Beijing may bring investment and tech benefits, but it also opens security gaps and raises questions about Europe’s broader digital security.