In Beijing’s iconic Great Hall of the People, Chinese Premier Li Qiang and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz convened the China-Germany Economic Advisory Committee on February 25 afternoon, drawing over 60 top executives from both nations. The event comes at a critical juncture as global markets grapple with uncertainty.
Premier Li Qiang addressed the audience, painting a picture of a world economy facing heightened volatility. He praised the enduring partnership between China and Germany, the globe’s top two economies, for driving mutual expansion and global recovery. Yet, he cautioned against rising protectionism and unilateral actions that threaten trade frameworks. ‘We must intensify cooperation precisely when challenges mount,’ Li urged.
Optimism prevailed as Li highlighted recovery trends in both economies. With China’s upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan, he foresaw expanded avenues for trade and industry synergy. ‘Our strengths complement each other; let’s foster cooperative competition for shared success,’ he proposed.
Merz responded enthusiastically, lauding the vibrant bilateral trade that has propelled economic advances. Germany aims to learn from China while advancing joint ventures in key sectors like autos, chemicals, machinery, green energy, and digital tech. ‘We’re dedicated to supporting German investments in China, improving business climates, and inviting more Chinese firms to Germany for mutual gains,’ Merz declared.
As discussions unfolded, the forum reinforced a commitment to stability and prosperity, positioning China-Germany relations as a bulwark against global headwinds and a model for international economic diplomacy.