Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the need for a "stable and sustainable" policy framework between China and Germany during a Monday phone call with German counterpart Johann Wadephul, highlighting bilateral relations as critical for global stability.
Foundations of Partnership
Wang, also a Political Bureau member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, stressed mutual respect and win-win cooperation as pillars of the relationship. "An important lesson from our growth is keeping partnership as our correct definition," he stated, noting both nations' roles as major economies influencing peace and development.
Navigating Differences
Acknowledging natural divergences due to differing histories and social systems, Wang cautioned against "megaphone diplomacy" and urged direct dialogue to resolve misunderstandings. The call comes amid heightened global economic uncertainty, with China-Germany trade reaching €230 billion in 2022.
Taiwan Question Clarified
Reiterating China's position, Wang described Taiwan as a "core interest" requiring strict adherence to the one-China principle – identified as the relationship's political foundation. He invoked Germany's historical experience with division, seeking understanding for China's territorial integrity concerns.
German Response
Wadephul affirmed Germany's unchanged one-China policy and proposed enhanced exchanges, expressing readiness to visit China. The dialogue follows July's strategic talks in Berlin, where both sides addressed security and economic coordination.
Analysts suggest the exchange signals efforts to stabilize ties as Europe recalibrates its China strategy, with Germany balancing economic interdependence and geopolitical pressures.
