German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to embark on a significant visit to China from April 14 to 16, accompanied by three cabinet ministers and a high-profile economic delegation. This trip underscores the importance of Sino-German relations and aims to bolster cooperation on shared goals, particularly in sustainable and green technologies.
Chancellor Scholz’s itinerary includes visits to a German hydrogen engine factory in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality on April 14, followed by a German green tech polymer manufacturer in Shanghai the next day. These visits highlight the mutual commitment of China and Germany to advance a global transformation towards a sustainable, green economy. The groundwork for this collaboration was laid during the seventh China-Germany inter-governmental consultation in Berlin in June 2023, where Chancellor Scholz and Chinese Premier Li Qiang agreed to establish a dialogue on climate and transformation, focusing on electrical and hydrogen mobility.
The delegation reflects Germany’s coalition government, with Environment Minister Steffi Lemke, Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir from the Green Party, and Transport Minister Volker Wissing of the Free Democratic Party accompanying the Chancellor. Their presence signifies a unified approach towards strengthening bilateral ties and addressing global environmental challenges.
Notably absent from the delegation are Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Robert Habeck, both known for their more cautious stance on China. Chancellor Scholz’s approach emphasizes economic engagement and cooperation, as demonstrated by his support for Chinese shipping company Cosco’s investment in a Hamburg port terminal, despite internal opposition.
In July 2023, Germany published its first-ever China strategy, marking a significant step in defining its relationship with China. The strategy rejects the idea of decoupling and the formation of new political blocs, while aiming to reduce singular dependencies. This balanced approach seeks to maintain strong economic ties with China, recognizing its crucial role in global markets.
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine adds another layer of complexity to international relations. Germany’s unequivocal condemnation of the conflict aligns with its calls for peace, a stance that is sensitive in the current political climate. There is potential for China to play a mediating role, given its global influence, which could have significant implications for European stability and economic interests.
Accompanying Chancellor Scholz are top executives from leading German companies, including Siemens CEO Roland Busch, who also serves as President of the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business. CEOs from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Bayer, ThyssenKrupp, Merck, and others will join the delegation. Their participation underscores the strong economic ties and mutual interests between German businesses and the Chinese market.
This visit represents a strategic effort to enhance cooperation between China and Germany, focusing on shared goals in sustainability and economic development. It offers an opportunity to deepen partnerships, address global challenges, and reinforce the importance of open dialogue and collaboration in a rapidly changing world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
