In meeting with Merz, Xi urges efforts to advance ties to ‘new levels’
South China Morning Post
by Cao JiaxuanFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of strengthening communication and trust between China and Germany during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Beijing. Amid global uncertainties, Xi highlighted the need for both nations to enhance strategic mutual understanding, given the rapidly changing international landscape. He stressed that the world is undergoing "changes unseen in a century," making it crucial for China and Germany to work together to advance their bilateral ties to "new levels."
Xi expressed his commitment to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, which he described as one of the world’s most important relationships. He noted that China has always valued its relationship with Germany and is willing to collaborate with Merz to ensure continuous progress in areas such as trade, innovation, and sustainable development. Merz responded by acknowledging the significance of Sino-German cooperation, given their status as global industrial powerhouses. He emphasized that this partnership carries both responsibility and opportunity, particularly in addressing global challenges like climate change and technological advancement.
The meeting comes at a time when Europe is reevaluating its relationship with China amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, especially under the influence of U.S. foreign policy. Xi’s call for stronger ties underscores China’s desire
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/25/2026