Germany and China Seek to Deepen Ties Amid Global Turbulence
Beijing, China – – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing today, marking the first day of a two-day visit focused on strengthening economic relations despite existing differences. The meeting, held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, signals a willingness from both sides to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape and prioritize economic cooperation.
During the meeting, Merz emphasized his desire to “deepen” ties with China and conveyed the interest of German companies in “expanding” economic cooperation. According to Chinese state media, Merz stated that Germany and China share a responsibility to address global challenges in a context of profound international change. A joint statement released following the meeting highlighted “the importance of dialogue, fair competition, and mutual access to markets.”
Merz aligned with Xi in advocating for “free trade” and opposing “protectionism,” a move interpreted as a reference to the disruptive tariff policies of U.S. President Donald Trump. He also expressed support for strengthening dialogue and cooperation between the European Union and China, echoing the Chinese perspective.
President Xi reportedly expressed his hope that China and Germany, the world’s second and third largest economies, would be “reliable partners” supporting each other, cooperating openly on innovation, and defending “multilateralism,” “international law,” and “free trade.” He also advocated for a “strong and autonomous” Europe and urged greater development of relations between China and the EU.
Prior to his arrival in Beijing, Merz stated, “We want a partnership with China that is balanced, reliable, regulated, and fair.”
This trip, Merz’s first as Chancellor, comes as the EU recalibrates its relationship with China, weighing a tactical approach to Beijing in light of geopolitical tensions involving the United States. For Chinese authorities, engaging with Berlin presents an opportunity to reduce tensions and distrust that have characterized EU-China relations.
Merz arrived with a large business delegation, including executives from Germany’s powerful automotive sector. He was first received by Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People. The outcome of today’s discussions is expected to set the tone for diplomatic relations between Beijing and Brussels in the coming months.
Despite past criticisms of China, Merz adopted a conciliatory tone at the start of his visit, stating, “It would be a mistake to try to decouple from China.” He added that severing ties with China would be self-defeating, “ruining our own economic opportunities.”
Merz also met with leaders from the Chinese automotive and technology sectors, stating, “We want Chinese investment in Germany.”
At a security conference in Munich earlier this month, Merz took a more critical stance, stating, “China systematically exploits the dependence of others.”
For Germany, the largest European economy currently facing economic headwinds, its relationship with China – now its top trading partner, surpassing the United States in 2025 – is crucial. Hundreds of German companies have established operations in China, benefiting from the effects of globalization.
However, China’s growing trade surplus, the imbalance in commercial relations with the EU, limited access to its market, and dependence on critical materials pose a serious threat to the German and European industrial base. China is also accelerating its efforts to become a major manufacturer of high-value products, putting pressure on Germany in key sectors like the automotive industry.
Merz had previously indicated that he would discuss issues such as China’s “overcapacity,” “export restrictions,” and “distortions” to competition with Chinese leaders.
Other European leaders have recently visited China with similar aims. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and British leader Keir Starmer visited in January, seeking to reset relations. French President Emmanuel Macron visited in December, and the Spanish Royal Family made a significant economic-focused visit in November. Spanish President Pedro Sánchez is scheduled to make his fourth visit to Beijing in April.
China is increasingly asserting itself as a major global power, and leaders from around the world are seeking dialogue with Xi Jinping as global instability increases. Even Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Beijing in late March.
“China has risen to the rank of the great powers,” Merz stated in Berlin before departing. “Our policy towards China must take this into account.” He added that China’s role in major global political issues can no longer be ignored.
The war in Ukraine was also a topic of discussion. Merz reportedly raised concerns about China’s continued support for Russia through the purchase of oil and gas and the supply of technology for the war. Chinese state media reported that the leaders “exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis,” with Xi reiterating the need to “persevere in seeking a solution through dialogue and negotiation” and to ensure “equal participation of all parties” while “addressing the legitimate concerns of each actor.” These are standard Chinese positions regarding the conflict.