China’s top diplomat Wang Yi has urged Germany to help prevent a trade war between China and the European Union, saying closer economic cooperation and dialogue are in the interests of both sides.
Wang made the comments during a phone call with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Tuesday, according to China’s foreign ministry.
He said China and the EU are “comprehensive strategic partners” and should resolve their differences through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Wang called on Germany to maintain a “rational and pragmatic” approach within the EU, support free trade and oppose protectionist measures.
He said stronger China-Germany cooperation was the “right choice” for both countries.
Berlin calls for fair trade
Germany’s foreign ministry said the two ministers agreed that a stable global economy serves the interests of China, Germany and Europe.
But Berlin also stressed that trade relations must be based on fair rules and a “real level playing field,” signaling that economic cooperation remains linked to concerns over trade imbalances and market access.
Wadephul said Germany supports resolving differences between the EU and China through dialogue and is prepared to play an active role, while reaffirming Berlin’s one-China policy.
The exchange comes as Brussels and Beijing seek to manage growing trade tensions, with European officials pressing China over market access and trade imbalances while Beijing opposes protectionist measures.
Taiwan, Ukraine and Iran also discussed
The ministers also discussed the situations in Ukraine and Iran, as well as Taiwan.
Wang urged Germany to help preserve peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, saying this would help create conditions for high-level exchanges between China and Germany. Beijing regards Taiwan as part of China, while Taiwan rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims.
The talks reflect the effort by both governments to maintain dialogue despite differences over trade and broader geopolitical issues.
