China and Germany have pledged to deepen their strategic partnership following German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's first official visit to the Chinese mainland since assuming office, with both nations committing to enhanced economic cooperation and multilateral engagement. The visit concluded on February 26, 2026, with Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning describing it as marking 'a new starting point' for bilateral relations.
During high-level meetings in Beijing, leaders from both countries emphasized maintaining open markets and strengthening institutional dialogue mechanisms. Notably, 30 executives from major German corporations accompanied Merz, signaling strong business confidence in China's economic trajectory. 'This delegation composition reflects our shared understanding that pragmatic cooperation remains the cornerstone of China-Germany relations,' Mao stated at a press briefing.
The two sides signed multiple cooperation agreements spanning green energy transition, customs coordination, and media collaboration. A highlight was the China-Germany Economic Advisory Committee symposium attended by over 60 German entrepreneurs, where participants expressed enthusiasm about expanding investments in China's growing renewable energy and digital infrastructure sectors.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized Beijing's readiness to 'resolve differences through respectful dialogue' while safeguarding multilateral trade systems. The discussions occurred against the backdrop of the ongoing Year of the Horse, with Merz being the first foreign leader to visit China during this lunar cycle.
Analysts suggest the outcomes demonstrate both nations' commitment to stabilizing economic ties amid global uncertainties, with Germany seeking to balance strategic autonomy within EU frameworks while maintaining its position as China's largest European trading partner.
