Germany’s Leader Walks a Fine Line in China
Summary
Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany tried to strike a delicate balance on a trip to China this week, promoting business ties with his country’s biggest trading partner while criticizing its surge of exports to Europe and its support for Russia. It was Mr. Scholz’s first visit to China since his government adopted a strategy last year that defined the Asian power as a “partner, competitor and systemic rival,” calling on Germany to reduce its dependency on Chinese goods. China’s manufacturing push in green sectors like electric cars and solar panels has touched off trade disputes with Europe and the United States, where such industries have also received government support. But he broached the topic with a nonconfrontational tone, at least publicly, stopping short of directly raising concerns about China’s support of Moscow’s wartime economy, especially its continued sale to Russia of goods with potential uses on the battlefield. “The two countries should view and develop bilateral relations from a long-term and strategic perspective and work together to inject more stability and certainty into the world,” Mr. Xi told Mr. Scholz, emphasizing the importance of seeking “common ground.” Beijing is sure to welcome the message that German businesses are committed to China.