CHINA-Li: Willing To Work w/Berlin To Take Relations To A New Level

(MNI) London-Chinese state media reports that at the seventh Sino-German Intergovernmental Consultation Chinese Premier Li Qiang has stated that China is willing to work with Germany to take bilateral relations to a new level. Li also states that "Both sides should vigorously enhance facilitation of people-to-people exchanges."

• In the language of senior Chinese officials, talking of working towards taking bilateral relations 'to a new level' is a notable step in developing economic and political links between countries.
• The German gov't is yet to publish its full China strategy (potentially delaying its formalisation until the conclusion of Li's visit), but in its first ever National Security Strategy called China “a partner, competitor and systemic rival”.
• Berlin finds itself in a precarious diplomatic situation. China remains Germany's largest single trading partner, and the gov't clearly views maintaining strong economic links with Beijing as crucial for supporting investment.
• However, there is pressure on the gov't from within Germany and from EU and NATO partners to be more circumspect on China links due to Beijing's close relations with Russia, perceived military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific.