Beijing urges Germany to abide one-China principle as top diplomat begins 2-day trip
Chinese vice president Han Zheng hosts German foreign minister Johann Wadephul in Beijing
File Photo by Murat Gök
ISTANBUL
China has urged Germany to abide by the one-China principle as German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul began a two-day visit to Beijing, his first since taking office, Chinese officials said Monday.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met Wadephul and said China and Germany are important economic and trading partners that can achieve “win-win results” through mutually beneficial cooperation, according to Xinhua News.
Han said Beijing is ready to enhance communication and dialogue with Berlin and work to bring the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership to a higher level.
He added that the Taiwan question is at the center of China's core interests, and urged Germany to abide by the one-China principle. Han also called on Berlin to play an active role in supporting the healthy development of China-EU relations.
Wadephul wrote on US social media company X that he “greatly appreciated” the opportunity to speak with Han.
In a separate post, he mentioned his meeting with Chinese Trade Minister Wang Wentao, saying he wants “balanced” economic relations with Beijing.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said Monday that “China and Germany are comprehensive strategic partners,” noting that Wadephul and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will have in-depth communication on China-Germany and China-EU relations.
Lin said at a news conference: “China always views its relations with Germany from a strategic and long-term perspective, we stand ready to work with Germany to implement the two important common understandings between the two leaders, strengthen strategic communication, enhance understanding and mutual trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, and promote the sustained, sound and steady development of bilateral relations.”
Wadephul postponed a planned visit to China in October after Beijing failed to confirm meetings beyond the scheduled talks with Wang Yi.
Germany and China have maintained diplomatic relations since 1972.
In 2024, China was Germany's second-largest trading partner for goods, with trade worth €246 billion ($283 billion).
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