German Chancellor Olaf Scholz embarked on his second official visit to the Chinese mainland this week, aiming to strengthen economic ties amid calls from some quarters to “de-risk” relations with China. Accompanied by senior representatives from leading German companies such as Siemens, BMW, Zeiss, Bayer, and Mercedes-Benz, Scholz’s visit underscores the significance of China as a key economic partner for Germany.
In recent times, certain Western media outlets have expressed skepticism about Scholz’s trip, reflecting a shift in perceptions towards China within Germany. While discussions often highlight China as a “partner, competitor, and systemic rival,” the emphasis on rivalry has become more pronounced in public discourse.
This shift is set against a backdrop of global geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Concerns over dependency on non-allied nations have prompted some in Germany to advocate for reducing economic ties with partners like China—a strategy referred to as “de-risking.”
However, the presence of prominent business leaders in Scholz’s delegation signals a commitment to continued collaboration. These industry leaders view the visit as an opportunity to deepen cooperation and explore new avenues for mutual economic growth. Despite calls for caution, the majority of the German business community recognizes the importance of maintaining strong ties with China.
As the world’s second-largest economy, China offers vast opportunities for German enterprises. Scholz’s visit represents a potential shift away from the “moralization” of foreign policy towards a more pragmatic approach that prioritizes economic interests and bilateral cooperation.
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Scholz's China trip a chance to shift 'moralization' of foreign policy
cgtn.com
