Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in Beijing on Monday, calling for the two nations to transcend differences in social systems, histories, and cultures to build a more mature model of positive interaction and a stable bilateral policy framework. Wadephul stated that direct and intensive exchanges with China are necessary amid rising international tensions. Both sides emphasized high-level exchanges, strategic communication, and reaffirmed the one-China principle.
Wang Yi noted during the meeting that although Wadephul's visit to China had faced several twists and turns, as the Chinese saying goes, 'Good things never come easy.' He stressed that the purpose of the visit should be to seek cooperation and enhance understanding, rather than amplifying differences. Amid rapid global changes and turbulence, China-Germany cooperation would benefit both countries and help address global challenges. Wang hoped Germany would adopt a more objective and rational view of China, uphold the positioning of the China-Germany partnership, and see China's development as an opportunity for deeper cooperation and a driver of mutually beneficial outcomes. China is willing to work with Germany to maintain close high-level exchanges, strengthen strategic communication, align development strategies, and advance practical cooperation to provide momentum for bilateral ties.
Wang emphasized that Germany, as the EU's largest economy, is a major force for European integration and an important cooperation partner for China. He hoped Germany would help the EU return to a rational and pragmatic approach toward China, stay on the path of mutually beneficial cooperation, resolve differences through dialogue, and avoid politicizing economic issues, weaponizing trade, or securitizing normal cooperation. As supporters, advocates, and practitioners of multilateralism, China and Germany should strengthen solidarity and coordination to promote a more just and reasonable global governance system.
On the Taiwan question, Wang stressed that the one-China principle is the important political foundation of China-Germany relations, with no room for ambiguity. He expressed hope that Germany would understand and support China's legitimate position and resolutely oppose and resist any 'Taiwan independence' separatist activities. Wadephul said Germany firmly adheres to the one-China policy, and this position will not change. He looks forward to holding a new round of intergovernmental consultations with China next year and is ready to maintain close high-level exchanges and deepen cooperation in trade and other sectors for the benefit of both peoples. German companies in China remain confident and are willing to continue expanding their presence. Germany supports the EU and China in seeking mutually beneficial outcomes through dialogue and stands ready to play a constructive role. The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis.
During the two-day visit, Wadephul also expressed that Berlin shares Paris's concerns about Chinese overcapacity—especially in the automotive sector—and that Beijing needs to recognize Europe's concerns and take action. However, he remained skeptical that more tariffs would help, stating Germany does not pursue protectionism and such measures should only be considered as a last resort with extreme caution.