Friedrich Merz on China

Friedrich Merz's recent official visit to China in February 2026 highlighted his government's strategy of navigating a tightrope between necessary economic engagement and addressing critical bilateral concerns. During his time, the Chancellor emphasized the potential for growth in both economies and sought to maintain and deepen diplomatic and intensive economic relations, evidenced by the large business delegation that accompanied him. He stated that the goal is to seek good cooperation while openly addressing issues that present challenges, such as the growing trade imbalance.

Despite engagements with top Chinese leadership and site visits to German companies, Merz returned with few concrete concessions from Beijing, according to analyses of the visit. While a joint press statement was published, it notably omitted explicit mention of systemic rivalry or human rights concerns, which some observers view as the price for obtaining the joint text. He affirmed Germany's adherence to the One-China policy while seeking an open, fair, and free trade relationship, illustrating a pragmatic but guarded approach to the world's second-largest economy.