German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for increased Chinese investment in Germany while also highlighting the need for Beijing to address market imbalances during his visit to China. Merz, accompanied by a significant business delegation, expressed his desire to deepen economic cooperation with China, which was Germany’s top trading partner last year.
During his first trip to China as Chancellor, Merz emphasized the strong foundation of cooperation between the two countries over the years, despite existing challenges. President Xi Jinping, aiming to portray China as a reliable partner amidst global uncertainties, appreciated Merz’s remarks. Merz faces the challenge of reshaping the economic ties between China and Germany, which have become less favorable to German interests.
Xi stressed the importance of strengthening strategic communication and mutual trust between China and Germany in an increasingly interconnected and unpredictable world.