Germany’s Merz Seeks Closer China Ties, Presses Beijing on Ukraine War and Trade Imbalance
Beijing – Despite significant disagreements, particularly regarding Russia’s war in Ukraine, Germany and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties amid increasing global instability. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, to discuss deepening economic and strategic cooperation.
Navigating Global Turbulence
Both nations acknowledged the challenges posed by a turbulent global landscape and the need for enhanced communication and mutual trust. Xi Jinping stated that the world is undergoing its most profound changes since the end of World War II, emphasizing the need for collaboration. He highlighted the importance of strengthening strategic communication between China and Germany in the face of increasing global complexity.
Merz echoed this sentiment, stating that despite existing differences, focusing on common ground and jointly addressing shared challenges is crucial. He stressed the necessity of involving Beijing in addressing major global political issues, particularly given the shifting world order.
Ukraine Conflict and China’s Role
A key focus of the discussions was the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Merz urged Chinese leaders to leverage their influence with Moscow to facilitate a peaceful resolution. He noted that signals from Beijing carry significant weight in Russia, influencing both words and actions.
Xi Jinping conveyed China’s support for a political solution to the conflict, emphasizing the need to address the “legitimate concerns of all sides” and ensure the “equal participation of all parties,” according to China’s official Xinhua News Agency.
Addressing Trade Imbalances and Economic Concerns
Merz also addressed the growing trade deficit between Germany and China, which has quadrupled since 2020. He expressed concern over this imbalance and indicated a desire to explore ways to reduce it. German imports from China rose 8.8% to 170.6 billion euros ($201 billion) in 2023, while exports to China fell 9.7% to 81.3 billion euros.
European leaders are seeking increased Chinese investment in European factories and a reduction in manufacturing overcapacity, particularly in sectors like electric vehicles and solar panels, as well as the removal of barriers faced by foreign companies operating in China.
Both countries affirmed their opposition to protectionism and economic coercion, as highlighted in a commentary by Xinhua.
Future Cooperation and Visits
Despite the challenges, Merz expressed satisfaction with the talks and highlighted the potential for future business deals, citing a potential order of up to 120 Airbus planes from China.
Merz’s visit included a stop in Hangzhou, a high-tech hub, where he visited Unitree Robotics, a leading Chinese developer of humanoid robots. His trip to China preceded a planned visit to Washington D.C., marking a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at navigating the evolving global landscape.