Johannesburg: Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for closer cooperation between China and Germany in a wide range of strategic industries, signaling a potential reset in bilateral ties that have recently experienced tensions over trade and political issues. The appeal was made during a sideline meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, where both leaders emphasized the importance of economic collaboration and long-term partnership.
Premier Li outlined a vision for intensified collaboration in key sectors, including renewable energy, smart manufacturing, biomedicine, hydrogen technology, and intelligent driving. According to Li, these industries represent the future of global economic competitiveness, and joint efforts could create mutually beneficial outcomes for both nations. The Premier stressed that by leveraging Germany’s technological expertise and China’s market scale, both countries could achieve breakthroughs in innovation while sustaining economic growth.
The meeting also addressed lingering political frictions. Li urged Germany to adopt a “rational and pragmatic” approach, emphasizing that political interference should not overshadow shared economic interests. This appeal comes amid previous criticisms from Berlin regarding human rights concerns and state-subsidized industry in China, as well as recent Chinese export restrictions that affected German firms. By calling for a cooperative stance, Li signaled Beijing’s interest in balancing political sensitivities with practical economic engagement.
Economic ties between China and Germany remain robust, highlighting the stakes of this proposed collaboration. Last year, China imported nearly $95 billion worth of German goods, with automobiles accounting for a significant portion. Conversely, Germany purchased over $107 billion of Chinese products, predominantly electronic components. Germany’s investments in China have also been substantial, with $6.6 billion in 2024 alone, representing nearly half of all EU and UK foreign direct investment into the country. German automakers, in particular, rely heavily on the Chinese market, where approximately one-third of their global sales occur.
Premier Li framed the initiative not merely as a bilateral economic opportunity but as part of a broader geopolitical strategy. He emphasized strengthening political and strategic communication, respecting core interests, and encouraging Germany to support a more constructive EU approach toward China. Li also proposed enhanced collaboration through multilateral platforms, including the United Nations and the G20, to uphold multilateralism, promote free trade, and contribute to global stability.
Chancellor Merz reportedly welcomed the initiative, acknowledging the complementary nature of German and Chinese economies. While maintaining Germany’s commitment to openness and cooperation, Merz reiterated the country’s intention to play a constructive role in the China-EU relationship, signaling a cautious but positive response to Beijing’s outreach.
Analysts suggest that the discussions could mark a turning point in China-Germany relations, offering an opportunity to reset economic dialogue amid growing geopolitical uncertainties. By prioritizing collaboration in next-generation industries, both countries appear intent on moving beyond short-term political disagreements to build a strategic partnership that could influence global trade, innovation, and technological leadership in the coming decade.