In a recent bilateral meeting in New York, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of dialogue and consultations in resolving trade disputes with Germany and the European Union (EU). Speaking to his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, Wang warned against politicizing economic and trade issues or resorting to tariff measures, stating that such actions would not benefit any party.
The meeting took place during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, amidst discussions of the EU's plans to impose additional tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles. Wang highlighted the nearly fifty-year history of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, underscoring that enhanced bilateral cooperation serves the interests of both sides and contributes to global stability.
“Economic cooperation between China and the EU can result in outcomes that exceed a simple adding-up of our respective economic output,” Wang noted, pointing out the highly complementary nature of the two economies.
He also stressed that politicizing trade issues and increasing tariffs could hinder the global green transition, expressing hope that Germany and the EU would continue to uphold international trade rules and maintain a fair competitive environment.
Wang lauded the strong economic and trade cooperation between China and Germany, highlighting record high investments in China by German companies in the first half of the year. “As the world's second and third largest economies, China and Germany can benefit from each other's development, jointly contributing to world peace and prosperity,” he added.
German Foreign Minister Baerbock echoed Wang’s sentiments, describing China as Germany's most important trade partner and emphasizing the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation across various sectors. She reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to the one-China policy and the importance of resolving differences through open and transparent dialogue.
The two diplomats also discussed broader international issues, including the Ukraine crisis and developments in the Middle East, reinforcing the commitment to collaborative efforts on global challenges.
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Chinese FM tells Germany not to politicize trade disputes with China
cgtn.com
