Beijing: China has called for a stronger and more practical partnership with Germany, urging closer cooperation in important industries that both countries see as vital for their future growth. The appeal came during a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg.
Premier Li told the German leader that China wants to expand collaboration in new energy, smart manufacturing, biomedicine, hydrogen technology and intelligent driving. He said these areas are not only pillars of modern industry but also gateways to long term economic development for both nations. Li asked Germany to follow what he described as a rational and pragmatic approach in its China policy.He added that both sides should focus on shared interests and avoid actions that could harm cooperation.
The meeting took place at a sensitive time in the relationship between the two major economies. Over the past year they have disagreed on issues such as technology restrictions, supply chain security and human rights. Even so their economic partnership remains strong.
China bought about 95 billion dollars worth of German goods last year, while Germany imported around 107 billion dollars of Chinese products. German companies also invested heavily in China in 2024, accounting for nearly half of all investment coming from the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Chancellor Merz said Germany values its long standing relationship with China and believes there is much room to work together in emerging scientific and technological fields. He also expressed readiness to support constructive dialogue between China and the European Union. His comments came shortly after Germany announced a review of its security related trade ties with China, a move aimed at balancing economic cooperation with national and European interests.
China has repeatedly invited Merz to visit Beijing, and diplomats say plans for the visit are expected to take shape soon. Observers believe the visit could set the tone for how the two countries manage their mix of cooperation and competition in the coming years.
The latest meeting signals that despite political tensions both sides want to maintain stability in their relationship.
For China the partnership with Germany is crucial for advanced technologies and investment. For Germany China remains one of its largest markets, especially for automobiles and industrial goods. How both countries handle upcoming policy decisions will determine whether this push for closer ties becomes reality or remains a diplomatic gesture.