The German Minister of Finance, Lars Klingbeil, and the Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng discuss strengthening trade relations and reducing tensions between the two economies.

Lars Klingbeil, the German Minister of Finance, made a visit to China, where he discussed with Vice Premier He Lifeng the need to strengthen trade relations and resolve existing tensions. This visit is the first by a minister from Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government, six months after the conservatives took power.

Tensions between Germany and China have been heightened by China's restrictions on chip and rare earth exports, affecting German companies. He emphasized the importance of ensuring fair conditions in the trade relationship, while Klingbeil called for cooperation to address global challenges, including the war in Ukraine. Trade exchanges between the two countries exceed 200 billion dollars, with Germany having a significant presence in the Chinese market. However, political relations remain tense, and Germany has adopted a firmer stance towards Beijing. Chancellor Merz is also expected to visit China soon.