Chinese President Xi Jinping met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday in a session that, according to state broadcaster CCTV, emphasized closer bilateral cooperation and mutual support.
During the discussion Xi urged Germany to maintain what he described as an "objective" stance toward China and to continue a positive China policy. He framed the relationship between the two countries as one that should evolve into reliable partnership, a designation he said should be reflected through practical cooperation across several areas.
Xi singled out innovation as a field where Beijing and Berlin ought to act as partners. He specifically called for enhanced dialogue and cooperation on artificial intelligence, stressing collaborative approaches to advanced technologies as part of the proposed partnership.
In addition to technology, Xi asked both nations to work to preserve the stability of supply chains. He positioned China and Germany as potential guardians of free trade, urging coordination to support open commerce. The Chinese leader also expressed hope that the European Union would reciprocate by meeting China halfway in bilateral relations.
The two leaders exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis during their talks, CCTV reported, although the report did not elaborate on specific positions or outcomes from that portion of the discussion.
This meeting takes place as China seeks to bolster its economic and diplomatic links with European partners amid wider global trade tensions. The Chinese request for a positive policy stance from Germany and heightened cooperation on technology and supply chains signals Beijing's intent to strengthen ties with key European economies.
Context and implications
The engagement between Xi and Merz underlines Beijing's interest in cultivating dependable relationships with European capitals and advancing collaboration in sectors such as advanced technology and trade logistics. While CCTV provided the account of the meeting, the report focused on Xi's appeals for partnership, cooperation on artificial intelligence, supply chain stability, and a role defending free trade.
Details about any concrete agreements, timelines, or reciprocal commitments from the German side were not included in the CCTV summary cited in this report.