In a most unusual partnership, Germany and China have come together to denounce president Donald Trump's ruinous protectionism that is savaging the world economy, and have instead vowed to "unequivocally oppose protectionism" and safeguard the global free trade system.
Meeting in Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang also pledged to promote strong, sustainable and balanced global economic growth. To accomplish this goal, Germany and China agreed to strengthen cooperation in finance and the economy; enhance communication in macroeconomic policy; make full use of high-level financial dialogues and build financing platforms concerning bilateral and third-party markets.
Germany opposes trade wars (such as the present one ignited by Trump) and advocates free trade based on rules, Merkel emphasized.
Equally important, both countries promised to promote bilateral cooperation in economy, trade, and investment, and to jointly safeguard free trade and an international market based on fair and recognized rules.
Despite the disjointed international situation, Merkel said Germany is ready to work with China to strengthen openness and cooperation. Doing this will send the world a firm signal that both countries will continuously safeguard multilateralism and facilitate international cooperation.
Li and Merkel jointly witnessed the signing of a series of bilateral cooperation documents in areas such as agriculture, education, healthcare, telecommunications and the motor vehicle industry.
Li said China treats both Chinese and foreign companies operating inside China equally and will increase the protection of intellectual property rights, a major concession. He also expressed his hope that Germany will remain open to Chinese companies and that Germany will strive to create a friendly and fair business environment for both their business communities.
Li and Merkel agreed they should build a cooperation platform for companies of both countries and create a more favorable business environment. Both leaders met during the fifth round of intergovernmental consultation in Berlin.
