Friedrich Merz’s Upcoming Trip to China to Strengthen Trade Ties
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit China next week, shortly after the start of the Chinese New Year. He aims to strengthen economic relations with China, accompanied by a large business delegation.
The visit is significant given Germany’s car manufacturers’ challenges from increasing Chinese competition. Merz emphasised the importance of balancing cooperation amidst geopolitical tensions, especially following China’s stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
During his visit, Merz will meet Premier Li Qiang and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, focusing on competition and cooperation. The trip coincides with China reasserting itself as Germany’s primary trading partner, with total trade reaching €251.8 billion in the previous year.
What we know so far
Friedrich Merz heads to China to reset strained trade relations
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will embark on his inaugural trip to China next week, soon after the Chinese New Year. He is keen on strengthening economic ties and will be accompanied by a substantial business delegation, as he mentioned in a recent speech at a CDU party congress in Stuttgart.
Merz expressed that Germany needs robust economic relationships globally, highlighting China’s significance in this equation. He stated, “Foreign policy today is also foreign economic policy, and foreign economic policy is an essential part of our economic policy.”
The chancellor’s itinerary includes meetings with Premier Li Qiang and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, with discussions centred on finding the right balance of cooperation amidst competition. This visit occurs at a pivotal moment for Germany, especially concerning the pressures faced by its automobile sector from Chinese competitors.
In addition, Merz plans to visit key sites, including the Forbidden City and businesses like Mercedes-Benz and Unitree Robotics. He acknowledged the complexities in Germany-China relations due to China’s refusal to condemn Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
As trade figures show, China reclaimed its position as Germany’s largest trading partner in the past year, with total exchanges reaching €251.8 billion. Looking ahead, Merz aims to navigate the emerging global order by enhancing Europe’s economic influence and forming new trade alliances.