ISTANBUL

China said Monday that it seeks equality in ties with Germany after German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul cancelled a trip to Beijing last week.

"Given the current circumstances, it is all the more important and imperative for the two sides to uphold mutual respect, equality and win-win cooperation and advance the bilateral relationship along the right track," Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a news conference.

Wadephul last week postponed his trip to China, which had been scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, after Beijing didn’t confirm any meetings beyond a planned session with his counterpart.

"China views and develops its relations with Germany from a strategic and long-term perspective," Guo said.