China’s top diplomat Wang Yi told German Chancellor Friedrich Merz that Beijing hopes to elevate bilateral ties to a “new level” as they met on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference on Saturday.
Wang has been seeking to present Beijing as a more reliable and stable partner for the European Union at a time when the bloc is attempting to reduce its dependence on both China and the United States.
According to a readout from China’s foreign ministry, Wang told Merz that China hopes to work with Germany to bring their “all-round strategic partnership to a new level ”.
With Berlin’s support, Beijing also wishes to “prepare for the next stage of high-level exchanges”, Wang added.
Deep economic ties between the two countries have become strained in recent years over issues ranging from allegations of unfair trade practices to protectionism.
Merz is reportedly preparing to make his inaugural visit to China later this month, with the management of evolving commercial relations expected to be high on the agenda.
Wang affirmed China’s support for Germany playing a greater role in maintaining its “strategic autonomy and self-reliance” and acting as a “driving force” for cooperation between China and Europe.
“China also expects Germany to become a… stabilising anchor for strategic relations,” he told Merz.
Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul visited Beijing in December, urging Chinese officials, including Wang, to use their influence to help bring an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine.
An earlier planned visit to China by Wadephul had been cancelled at short notice, with Germany stating that meetings with key officials could not be arranged.
