German-China Relations: New Momentum & Upcoming Visit

Beijing and Berlin are seeking to strengthen ties despite growing European scrutiny of China’s trade practices, with a German foreign minister’s visit and planned reciprocal trips signaling a renewed commitment to dialogue. The exchange of high-level visits comes as the European Union prepares to adopt a tougher stance on trade with China.

On December 8, 2025, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, in Beijing. Wang Yi noted that Wadephul’s visit marked the first by a German foreign minister since the formation of Germany’s new government, acknowledging that the trip had faced “twists, and turns.” He emphasized the importance of purpose over timing, advocating for cooperation rather than confrontation and mutual understanding over widening differences.

“The world today is marked by changes and instabilities as well as increasing turbulence,” Wang Yi stated, according to a readout from the Chinese Foreign Ministry. “China-Germany cooperation is conducive to boosting the development of both countries and to jointly addressing global challenges.” He urged Germany to view China’s development as an opportunity for deepened cooperation and mutual benefit.

The call for strengthened ties comes amid increasing tensions between China and the West over trade imbalances, human rights concerns, and geopolitical influence. The European Union is expected to announce a more assertive trade policy towards China next month, reflecting growing anxieties about unfair competition and strategic dependencies. However, Germany, as the EU’s largest economy, appears to be navigating a complex path, seeking to balance its economic interests with broader concerns about China’s political system and international behavior.

Wang Yi stressed the importance of mutual respect and transcending differences in social systems, historical backgrounds, and cultures, calling for a “more mature model of positive interaction and a more stable bilateral policy framework.” He also expressed China’s readiness to work with Germany to strengthen high-level exchanges, enhance strategic communication, and synergize development strategies.

The emphasis on a “strategic partnership” reflects a long-standing effort by both countries to cultivate a relationship that extends beyond purely economic considerations. Germany is a key force in European integration and an important cooperative partner for China, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. However, the relationship has faced challenges in recent years, with concerns raised in Berlin about China’s market access restrictions, intellectual property theft, and human rights record.

Further signaling a desire to bolster relations, Wang Yi met with Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party in Germany, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference on February 14, 2026. During that meeting, Wang Yi expressed hope that bilateral ties could be elevated to a “new level.” According to Beijing’s foreign ministry, Wang also indicated a desire to facilitate preparations for future high-level exchanges.

Merz is reportedly planning his first visit to China this month, with navigating evolving commercial ties a key priority. This follows a pattern of increased leadership-level engagement between the two countries in early January 2026, with visits from leaders of South Korea, Pakistan, and Ireland, as well as confirmation of a planned visit from the Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo. These visits, analysts say, demonstrate China’s predictability and consistency in its foreign policy, offering reassurance to partners amid global instability.

The renewed focus on ties with Germany also comes as China seeks to present itself as a reliable partner to the EU, particularly as the bloc aims to reduce its dependence on both China and the United States. Wang Yi’s meetings with European leaders are part of a broader effort to reassure European capitals that China remains committed to mutually beneficial cooperation.

Despite the diplomatic efforts, deep economic ties between Germany and China have experienced friction in recent years. Issues such as unfair trade practices and protectionism continue to pose challenges. However, both sides appear determined to manage these challenges and maintain a strategic partnership that is seen as vital for their respective economic and geopolitical interests.

Wang Yi affirmed support for Germany’s “strategic autonomy and self-reliance,” encouraging Berlin to act as a “driving force” for cooperation between China and Europe. This statement suggests a willingness from Beijing to support a more independent European foreign policy, potentially lessening the EU’s reliance on the United States.

The one-China principle remains a foundational element of the relationship, with Wang Yi emphasizing that there is “no room for ambiguity” on this issue. This underscores China’s sensitivity regarding Taiwan and other issues related to its territorial integrity, and the expectation that Germany will continue to adhere to Beijing’s position.