German Economy Minister Reiche to Visit China Next Month
German Chancellor Merz is set to send Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Katherina Reiche on a visit to China next month.
According to informed sources, Reiche plans her first visit to China from May 26 to 29, with Beijing as the main destination and Guangzhou possibly included. The sources noted that specific details and scheduling of the trip may still be subject to change.
The spokesperson for Germany's Ministry of Economics declined to confirm the visit, stating that any official trip would only be announced once formally confirmed. Reiche’s ministry plays a crucial role in Germany’s relations with China.
However, according to insiders, as a member of Merz’s conservative CDU party, Reiche may be reluctant to use trade tools. Since these discussions are held behind closed doors, the sources requested anonymity.
At 52 years old, Reiche advocates for more market-oriented policies with reduced state intervention. As a controversial figure within Merz’s governing coalition, she has consistently maintained this stance, criticizing her SPD coalition partner. This month, her remarks drew public rebuke from Merz during government efforts to devise measures addressing soaring fuel prices.
Germany’s export-driven economy is being affected by deteriorating global trade conditions and escalating geopolitical tensions—for example, the war-related impacts between the U.S. and Israel on Iran, which have pushed up energy prices.
European officials are also growing concerned that the United States is striving to reach agreements with China to gain greater access to critical minerals, trade, and investment—putting Europe at a disadvantage. This development has prompted European leaders to rush to Beijing in an effort to reconfigure EU-China relations.
Source: rfi
Original: toutiao.com/article/1863204607514889/
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