Overview
- Wadephul began political talks in Beijing by meeting Commerce Minister Wang Wentao to launch his agenda.
- Negotiations prioritize China’s export controls on rare earths, which have negative effects on German and European companies.
- China’s stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine is on the table, with Beijing claiming neutrality as Western governments allege support for Moscow.
- Further high-level meetings are planned with Vice President Han Zheng, Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Communist Party official Liu Haixing.
- Berlin casts the trip as a reset following the late-October cancellation, with additional senior visits planned, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz early next year.