Chinese President Xi Jinping and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the importance of their countries’ relationship in a call on Friday, as both China and Europe navigate uncertainty stemming from U.S. tariff policies.
Europe and China are major trading partners with the U.S. and each other. Chinese-German trade alone totaled approximately 246 billion euros ($279 billion) last year, according to official figures.
Germany has been seeking a balance in its relationship with China, viewing it as both a strategic rival and a crucial trading partner that supports Germany’s export-driven economy.
During the call, Xi Jinping noted the significant global changes, describing them as “intertwined turmoil and transformation,” according to official broadcaster CCTV.
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“China is willing to work with Germany to open a new chapter in their all-round strategic partnership, to lead China-EU relations toward new development, and to contribute to the stable growth of the global economy,” Xi was quoted as saying.
Chancellor Merz’s spokesperson stated that both leaders emphasized their willingness to cooperate to address global challenges, adding that “Chancellor Merz emphasized the importance of fair competition and reciprocity”.
Neither Berlin nor the CCTV report explicitly mentioned U.S. tariffs.
Earlier this month, Beijing urged Germany not to undermine cooperation under the guise of de-risking, a European strategy aimed at reducing dependence on Chinese trade.
The European Union, with Germany as its largest economy, and China also have disagreements regarding Chinese electric vehicles.
