German Chancellor Friedrich Merz meets Premier Li Qiang in Beijing to recalibrate ties with China, aiming for deeper, fairer economic cooperation amid a widening bilateral trade imbalance.

Merz stresses treating China as a partner on global challenges while preserving Europe’s strategic autonomy and prudent competition.

He underlines growth potential in the China-Germany relationship and calls for open dialogue on market access, fair competition rules, and securing supply chains for critical minerals.

Domestically, the government frames the visit as a turning point for internal security, focusing on stripping illegal profits from crime and strengthening police authority.

Historically, European progress is linked to domestic competitiveness and institutional modernization rather than relying solely on foreign competition.

CCTV reported the statements and noted the article was AI-assisted and editor-reviewed.

CDU/CSU policy notes address nuclear energy, social-media regulation, and internal reforms influencing leadership decisions.

SPD and coalition partners push to link asylum stay permits with work rights while pursuing reforms in energy and defense procurement.

Both leaders highlight cooperation in innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence, as a key area for dialogue.

Overall, the visit signals cautious warming with emphasis on safeguarding national interests through dialogue, reforms, and targeted cooperation rather than rapid rapprochement.

Europe seeks to strengthen economic and military capabilities amid tariffs and broader economic challenges.

The leaders exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis during their meeting.