Xi urges Germany to strengthen China ties amid growing trade tensions with Europe

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 01, 2026

Photo courtesy: Reuters

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on Germany to pursue a more cooperative approach toward Beijing as trade tensions between China and the European Union continue to strain economic relations.

Xi made the appeal during talks with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Beijing on Friday, October 30, expressing hopes for stronger diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.

The Chinese leader urged Germany to adopt what he described as a “rational, pragmatic and friendly” policy toward China, while calling for mutual respect and greater cooperation.

He also expressed willingness to begin a new chapter in the countries’ strategic partnership, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stable relations between two of the world’s largest economies.

The meeting came during Steinmeier’s five-day state visit to China from October 27 to 31, as Beijing seeks closer engagement with European countries amid growing disagreements over trade and industrial policies.

Trade tensions complicate relations

China and Germany maintain significant economic ties, particularly in manufacturing, automobiles and industrial technology. However, the relationship faces increasing pressure from concerns about market access, state-backed competition and Europe’s trade imbalance with China.

European officials have warned that stronger measures may be needed to address the EU’s widening trade deficit with Beijing.

Germany and France have also proposed additional measures intended to help the bloc respond more quickly to economic pressure from other countries.

During his visit, Steinmeier cautioned that China’s efforts to become more economically self-sufficient should not disadvantage other markets.

His remarks reflected wider European concerns about growing dependence on Chinese products and supply chains, particularly in strategic industries.

Beijing pushes for closer cooperation

Despite those disagreements, Xi emphasized the economic opportunities available through continued engagement.

According to China’s Foreign Ministry, he called for expanded cooperation in artificial intelligence, green technologies, digital industries and services.

Xi also encouraged Germany to provide Chinese businesses with fair and transparent operating conditions, while expressing support for greater German investment in China.

The Chinese president said stronger ties between Beijing and Berlin could help maintain economic stability and improve relations between China and the European Union.

Steinmeier, meanwhile, expressed support for continued dialogue and cooperation while stressing the importance of international rules and stable relations between countries.

Germany seeks more balanced economic ties

The diplomatic talks coincided with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit to Asia, where he has been strengthening economic and security relationships with Singapore, Japan and South Korea.

In a speech in Singapore on October 27, Merz said Germany would continue engaging with China while reducing excessive dependence on individual trading partners.

He emphasized that Germany was not seeking to end economic relations with Beijing but wanted more balanced partnerships and diversified supply chains.

Xi’s meeting with Steinmeier highlighted the competing priorities shaping China-Germany relations: maintaining important trade and investment links while addressing concerns over competition and economic security.

Neither government announced a new trade agreement following the talks, leaving the broader disagreements between China and Europe unresolved.