MADRID, July 20 -- Veteran Spanish economist Rafael Tamames predicted that China could have double the economic power of the United Statesin the next 15 years if it maintains its current rate of growth.

Speaking at a seminar here called "The growth of a new economic equilibrium," Tamames said that "in 15 years China could be twice as powerful as the U.S.A. on an economic level."

However, he contrasted China's economic growth with the lack of influence it currently has in organizations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) when compared to the United States.

He also said that the United States' "intrusion" into "Asian affairs" highlighted the "great importance of having an influence in that area," and added it would be interesting to see if "China can expel the United States from the Asian region and whether or not the Americans would permit that to happen."

The seminar had the aim of "discussing China's situation in international politics and discussing where the limits to its growth lie."

In explaining his position, Tamames also gave a brief discussion on the historic events which have led China to its current position as the main economic rival to Western powers.