German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is currently in the Chinese mainland for his second official visit, signaling a pivotal moment in Germany's foreign policy. Amidst a backdrop of global geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Scholz's trip aims to balance rivalry with opportunities for deeper economic collaboration.
While some Western media outlets have echoed concerns about Germany's reliance on non-allied business partners, particularly the Chinese mainland, Scholz's visit underscores a commitment to maintaining and enhancing economic ties. The narrative of Germany needing to 'de-risk' its dependencies is being thoughtfully addressed through this high-level engagement.
Accompanying Scholz are prominent figures from the German economy, including senior representatives from Siemens, BMW, Zeiss, Bayer, and Mercedes-Benz. These industry leaders view the visit as a strategic opportunity to strengthen partnerships and explore new avenues for cooperation, despite the prevailing calls for reducing dependencies.
This dual approach highlights Germany's nuanced stance in international relations—acknowledging the complexities of global dependencies while actively seeking to foster robust economic relationships. Scholz and the business community's dedication to deepening cooperation with the Chinese mainland reflects a broader strategy to navigate and influence the evolving landscape of international affairs.
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Scholz's China trip a chance to shift 'moralization' of foreign policy
cgtn.com
