China and Germany agree to step up engagement as Beijing prepares for post-Merkel era
- The two countries will discuss issues such as human rights and the Asia-Pacific region in a drive to boost mutual trust, according to a joint statement
- The Chancellor will step down later this year and one possible successor, Green leader Annalena Baerbock, has called for a tougher stance towards Beijing
China and Germany have agreed to step up engagement on issues including human rights and the Asia-Pacific, as Beijing seeks to keep relations between the two countries on a level footing after Angela Merkel steps down later this year.
The Chancellor, a leading advocate for engagement with Beijing, will step down after 16 years in September, when the next German election is held.
The left-leaning Greens are currently leading in the polls and the party, which has previously criticised Merkel’s approach to China, is expected by many observers to take a tougher approach towards China if it comes to power after the election.
Last week the Greens’ chancellor candidate Annalena Baerbock said that Germany must strive for a policy of “dialogue and toughness” towards Beijing.
A joint statement released by the Chinese foreign ministry on Thursday said both sides are ready to continue diplomatic and security dialogues in 2021 and afterwards to “improve political mutual trust and ensure stable bilateral relations over the long run”.
On Friday, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said that China believes it is important to communicate with German political parties, including the Greens, to increase mutual understanding.