China’s Foreign and Commerce ministries on Tuesday outlined details of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s upcoming visit, confirming meetings with Chinese leaders and the participation of around 30 senior executives from leading German firms, in sectors ranging from automotive and chemicals to biopharmaceuticals, machinery and the circular economy.
Analysts said the visit sends a clear signal that Berlin is seeking a more pragmatic approach toward China amid shifting global dynamics, as Germany looks to deepen economic engagement and expand its strategic and policy space in the face of transatlantic uncertainty and mounting growth pressures.
The responses follow Monday’s announcement by China’s Foreign Ministry that Merz is set to pay an official visit to China from February 25 to 26.
In response to questions regarding the visit, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Tuesday that this is German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s first visit to China since he took office. During the visit, President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang will meet and have talks with him respectively for exchanges of views on bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest.
