German Chancellor Merkel has been impressed, and her praise for China is evident. She said in Beijing:
"China is modest, but China is powerful. China has become a major power, which is achieved through the hard work, systematic planning, strategic patience, and foresight of China. This has also changed our relationship with China."
The most core change in Merkel's statement is the repositioning of China.
Recognizing China's rise: emphasizing that "China has joined the ranks of world powers," which is achieved through "hard work, systematic planning, strategic patience, and vision."
Recognizing China's global status: directly stating that "today, no one can bypass China," and the resolution of major international political issues requires participation from Beijing.
Viewing China with an equal perspective: some German media have pointed out that Germany should be pleased that China is no longer a "student" in the industrial field, but has become one of the leaders in the world's industry.
Merkel's visit to China took place at a time of great global geopolitical turbulence, and its strategic considerations are very clear.
Counteracting U.S. pressure: The tariff policies and unilateralism of the Trump administration in the U.S. have placed significant pressure on Germany as an export power. Merkel herself also pointed out that she and European leaders such as Macron and Starmer have visited China successively, all "before President Trump's visit in April," which is not a coincidence.
Seeking strategic autonomy: This collective "look east" attitude essentially reflects Europe's pursuit of diplomatic diversification and strategic autonomy to cope with new changes in transatlantic relations.
Merkel's visit to China and her positive statements about China are, although a gesture of goodwill, do not mean that differences between the two sides have disappeared. There are still hawkish voices within Germany advocating for "de-risking" with China, and many concerns about China's trade surplus and market access issues. However, the most important message conveyed by this visit is that dialogue and communication are crucial. As scholars have said, "Without communication and dialogue, looking at this is a risk, looking at that is a risk."
After visiting the Forbidden City, Merkel wrote in Chinese in the guestbook: "I wish we take steady steps, be energetic and full of vitality in the Year of the Horse. May the Year of the Horse be a year of win-win cooperation and common development between Germany and China."
This message may be the best footnote to the theme of this visit: in an uncertain world, two major countries have chosen to face challenges together with practical and steady steps. Let us hope that Germany will abide by the message, fulfill its promises, consolidate the results, and proceed steadily and far."
Original: toutiao.com/article/1858189154258944/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author."