In a recent meeting in New York, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged Germany to avoid politicizing economic and trade issues and to resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation.
On Tuesday, during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. The meeting occurred amid rising tensions over the European Union’s plans to impose additional tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles.
Wang emphasized that politicizing trade issues and imposing tariffs would not serve the interests of either side. “Enhancing bilateral cooperation is in both sides’ interests and conducive to world stability,” he stated, highlighting the mutually beneficial nature of China-EU relations. Wang pointed out that the complementary economies of China and the EU can create synergies that surpass individual contributions.
He expressed hope that Germany and the EU would maintain open cooperation with China, engage in dialogue, and uphold international trade rules and a fair competitive environment. “Actions that hinder economic and trade relations do not benefit anyone and impede the global green transition,” Wang added.
Regarding China-Germany relations, Wang noted the strategic plans developed by both countries’ leaders and the frequent high-level interactions this year. He remarked that economic and trade cooperation between China and Germany has remained robust, reflecting the strategic significance of their bilateral ties.
Wang highlighted that many German companies are capitalizing on opportunities in China as it pursues modernization and deepens reforms. He mentioned that German investment in China reached a new high in the first half of the year, demonstrating strong business confidence.
“As the world’s second and fourth largest economies, China and Germany can benefit from each other’s development, contribute to global prosperity, and bring stability to the world,” Wang stated.
German Foreign Minister Baerbock acknowledged China’s role as Germany’s most important trading partner and expressed optimism about the wide range of sectors for bilateral cooperation. She emphasized that such cooperation would lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.
Baerbock reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to the one-China policy and underscored the importance of free trade and fair competition. She advocated for resolving differences through open and transparent dialogue and consultations, stressing the need to uphold international trade rules and order.
Addressing the EU’s position, Baerbock noted that as the world’s largest single market, the EU should strive to keep its market open. She added that Germany values China’s role in international affairs and is willing to enhance coordination within multilateral institutions like the UN to promote EU-China relations.
The two ministers also discussed enhancing cooperation to ensure that the UN and the Security Council effectively shoulder their responsibilities in maintaining world peace and security. Additionally, they exchanged views on international issues, including the Ukraine crisis and the situation in the Middle East.
