Xi, Scholz seek dialogue on EU tariffs

Xi, Scholz seek dialogue on EU tariffs in their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Leader’s Summit in Brazil.

Chinese President Xi Jinping remarked on Tuesday that the European Union’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles have garnered global attention, reaffirming China’s commitment to addressing such differences through dialogue and negotiation.

During his meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Xi expressed his hope that Germany will continue to play a key role in fostering dialogue and cooperation.

Xi reflected on his candid and productive discussions with Scholz during the German leader’s visit to China in April. Over the past six months, significant progress has been made in green development, sustainable transportation, and agricultural collaboration with Africa, strengthening China-Germany relations with renewed vigor.

Highlighting the accelerating pace of global transformation and critical junctures in development, Xi stressed the importance of China and Germany—respectively the second and third largest global economies—consolidating their comprehensive strategic partnership with a long-term and strategic approach to continue their cooperative success stories.

Xi emphasized that China’s policy toward Germany remains stable and consistent, expressing a willingness to work together to respect core interests, seek common ground while managing differences, and learn from each other.

Acknowledging deeply interconnected economic interests, Xi noted that bilateral cooperation presents mutual development opportunities. He stated that China views Germany as a key partner in advancing modernization and will continue to provide German companies with broad market opportunities.

China and Germany should prioritize upgrading cooperation through digital transformation, intelligent technologies, and low-carbon initiatives while exploring third-party markets for mutual benefit, Xi proposed.

Xi underscored China’s view of Europe as an important pillar in a multi-polar world, expressing Beijing’s commitment to working with Europe to tackle challenges and ensure stable, sustainable, and constructive China-EU relations.

Chancellor Scholz acknowledged that since his visit to China, the relationship between Germany and China has made notable progress. He emphasized the importance of strengthening communication and collaboration amid global complexities.

Scholz reiterated Germany’s aspiration to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership with China, emphasizing equality, transparency, and mutual respect in dialogue. He expressed hope for resolving differences, achieving mutual benefits, and promoting global economic recovery and prosperity.

Scholz also voiced optimism that the EU and China would address electric vehicle tariff issues through dialogue and negotiation, pledging Germany’s support in fostering positive discussions.

Both leaders also exchanged perspectives on pressing issues such as the Ukraine crisis and developments in the Middle East.