In a significant diplomatic engagement, Chinese President Xi Jinping and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier convened in Beijing on Friday to discuss the strengthening of their countries’ strategic partnership. The dialogue underscored China’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and opening a new chapter in comprehensive strategic cooperation with Germany.
During the meeting, President Xi articulated the importance of increased cooperation between China and Germany, identifying both as key global economies with substantial responsibilities in maintaining international economic stability and fostering China-European Union relations. Xi advocated for enhanced communication, mutual respect, and strategic collaboration, emphasizing the need to focus on openness and partnership rather than isolation and confrontation.
Xi highlighted the complementary economic strengths of both countries, with Germany’s proficiency in advanced manufacturing and high-quality products aligning with China’s modernisation and high-quality economic development initiatives. He encouraged German businesses to expand their investments in China and leverage its vast consumer market, while also urging Germany to offer a fair and transparent business environment for Chinese companies operating there.
The discussions also explored potential collaborations in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, green technology, low-carbon development, digital services, and the digital economy, aimed at bolstering future competitiveness. Additionally, Xi proposed increased cooperation in education, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges ahead of the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Germany in 2027.
On the broader China-EU relations front, Xi reiterated the importance of prioritizing cooperation over competition, expressing hope for strengthened dialogue and management of differences to foster a balanced international order and inclusive global economic growth.
German President Steinmeier acknowledged China’s economic and technological advancements and its growing international influence. He reaffirmed Germany’s adherence to the One-China policy and expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations. Steinmeier emphasized resolving economic and trade disputes through dialogue and showed Germany’s readiness to collaborate with China in supporting international peace, free trade, and adherence to the United Nations Charter and international law.
The meeting highlighted the mutual interest of China and Germany in fortifying economic cooperation, maintaining global stability, and expanding diplomatic engagement amid evolving global dynamics, while also stressing the importance of opposing protectionism and trade conflicts in the current international economic climate.
