In a move to bolster international economic stability and deepen bilateral ties, Chinese President Xi Jinping and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier met in Beijing on Friday to discuss strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership. The talks highlighted the mutual interest of China and Germany, both major global economies, in enhancing cooperation and fostering a more stable international economic order.
President Xi stressed the importance of closer collaboration between the two nations, emphasizing the need for open communication and strategic cooperation. He called on both countries to embrace openness and partnership, advocating against isolation and confrontation. Xi underscored the complementary nature of the Chinese and German economies, citing Germany’s expertise in advanced manufacturing and high-quality products alongside China’s focus on modernization and high-quality economic development.
Encouraging German businesses to increase their investments in China, Xi pointed out the potential benefits of accessing China’s vast consumer market. He also urged Germany to ensure a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese companies operating within its borders. The leaders identified new opportunities in artificial intelligence, green technology, low-carbon development, digital services, and the digital economy as key areas for future collaboration.
As the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries approaches in 2027, Xi called for increased cooperation in education, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. On a broader scale, he reiterated China’s stance that cooperation should take precedence over competition in China-EU relations, expressing hope for strengthened dialogue and managed differences to promote a balanced international order and inclusive global economic growth.
President Steinmeier acknowledged China’s economic and technological advancements and its growing influence in global affairs. Reaffirming Germany’s commitment to the One-China policy, he expressed confidence in the future of bilateral relations. Steinmeier emphasized the importance of resolving economic and trade disagreements through dialogue and consultation, expressing Germany’s willingness to collaborate with China in supporting international peace, free trade, and the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.
The discussions also touched on the shared commitment of both nations to oppose protectionism and trade conflicts, underscoring their dedication to maintaining international stability and expanding diplomatic engagement amid shifting global conditions.