German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to lead a high-profile delegation to the Chinese mainland from April 14 to 16, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral trade relations. Accompanied by three cabinet ministers and top economic leaders, Scholz's visit aims to navigate the complex landscape of domestic and international political and economic interests.
Following a meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden in Washington two months ago, the delegation's primary focus lies in fostering a global transformation towards a sustainable, green economyāa shared priority between the Chinese mainland and Germany. This collaboration serves as the foundation for discussions on more contentious issues.
During their stay, Scholz and his team will tour a German company's hydrogen engine factory in Chongqing Municipality and a green tech polymer manufacturer in Shanghai. These visits underscore Germany's commitment to advancing green technologies and sustainable practices. The initiatives are aligned with the agreements reached during the seventh China-Germany inter-governmental consultation in Berlin in June 2023, where both leaders, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang, pledged to establish a climate and transformation dialogue centered on electrical and hydrogen mobility.
The delegation features Environment Minister Steffi Lemke and Agriculture Minister Cem Ćzdemir from the Green Party, as well as Transport Minister Volker Wissing from the Free Democratic Party, representing Germany's coalition government. Notably absent from the delegation are high-profile figures such as Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Robert Habeck, both known for their stringent stance on the Chinese mainland.
Chancellor Scholz's approach is characterized by moderation and a focus on economic cooperation, evident in his support for Chinese shipping giant Cosco's acquisition of a significant stake in a Hamburg port terminal. In July 2023, Germany unveiled its first official China strategy in a year and a half, rejecting de-coupling while seeking to minimize dependencies on the Chinese mainland, particularly in the wake of reducing natural gas imports from Russia.
The ongoing conflict in Russia presents both challenges and opportunities, as Germany faces widespread condemnation of Russia's military actions. Expertly navigating this situation could position China as a potential mediator and peace broker, leveraging its considerable global influence. While advocating for peace remains a sensitive topic in Germany, the economic sector welcomes stability and continued collaboration.
The delegation also includes leading corporate figures such as Siemens CEO Roland Busch, who also serves as the President of the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business, along with CEOs from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Bayer, ThyssenKrupp, and Merck, signaling strong industry support for the trip.
As Scholz and his delegation embark on this pivotal visit, their efforts are poised to bolster Germany-Chinese mainland relations, drive sustainable economic growth, and navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
