Chinese President Xi Jinping and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier engaged in discussions in Beijing on Friday, with a focus on enhancing their comprehensive strategic partnership. Xi expressed China’s readiness to strengthen bilateral ties and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the two major global economies, which bear significant responsibilities for international economic stability and relations with the European Union.
During their meeting, Xi called for increased communication, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation between the two nations. He urged both sides to prioritize openness and partnership, highlighting the complementary strengths of their economies. Xi noted Germany’s expertise in advanced manufacturing and high-quality products, alongside China’s pursuit of modernization and high-quality economic development.
Xi encouraged German businesses to expand their investments in China, benefiting from its substantial consumer market. He also urged Germany to ensure a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese companies operating there. The leaders explored potential collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, green technology, low-carbon development, digital services, and the digital economy to boost future competitiveness.
Looking ahead to the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Germany in 2027, Xi called for increased cooperation in education, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. On China-EU relations, he reiterated Beijing’s stance that cooperation should take precedence over competition, expressing hope for strengthened dialogue and a more balanced international order.
German President Steinmeier acknowledged China’s economic and technological advancements and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to the One-China policy. He emphasized the importance of resolving economic and trade disagreements through dialogue and consultation, expressing Germany’s willingness to work with China on international peace, free trade, and adherence to the United Nations Charter and international law.
Both leaders underscored the need to oppose protectionism and trade conflicts amid growing pressures on the international economic and political landscape. The meeting underscored the shared interests of China and Germany in bolstering economic cooperation, maintaining international stability, and expanding diplomatic engagement in response to evolving global conditions.