Merkel and Xi Jinping Cement Economic Partnership with Strategic and Trade Agreements

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, on his first official visit to China, held significant talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li during his visit to Beijing in February 2026. Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening economic ties, with Merz spotlighting the need for fair competition and transparency amid a growing trade deficit that has surged to over 80 billion euros since 2020.

Among key outcomes, China announced plans to order up to 120 Airbus aircraft, signaling major contracts with German companies. Additionally, five government agreements were signed, focusing on climate cooperation, the resumption of German pork exports after an African swine fever-related halt, and trade in chicken feet. Merz underscored the resumption of German-Chinese government consultations to restore closer dialogue interrupted by the pandemic and changes in Berlin's government.

The German government simultaneously approved a new action plan to combat organized crime, enhancing the collaboration between customs and the Federal Criminal Police with expanded investigative powers—an aspect linked indirectly to trade and security concerns discussed during the visit.

Chinese leaders highlighted the necessity of building mutual trust and strategic communication amid complex global challenges and rising unilateralism. Premier Li described the bilateral relationship as "stable" and stressed the importance of reinforcing trust for ongoing collaboration. The talks also addressed geopolitical considerations, including the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, with China’s role as a key ally of Russia being a sensitive topic.

Merz received military honors at the Great Hall of the People, emphasizing the diplomatic significance of the visit. Both countries also agreed on several ministerial-level visits to deepen exchanges throughout 2026, highlighting a renewed commitment to cooperative relations across economic, environmental, and security dimensions.

This visit marks an important step in Germany-China relations, aiming to balance economic opportunity with strategic dialogue and regulatory transparency in an era of global volatility.