German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warned China during a diplomatic visit, stating that Beijing’s support for Moscow amid the ongoing Ukraine war could have lasting repercussions on Sino-German relations. She urged China to leverage its influence to help end the conflict, which has now surpassed 1,000 days.
Speaking alongside her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing, Baerbock underscored the global ramifications of the war and condemned the involvement of North Korean troops in Ukraine as well as the battlefield use of Chinese-manufactured drones.
Baerbock called for an international peace process for Ukraine, emphasizing the obligations of permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. “Every permanent member has a responsibility for peace and security in the world,” she stated.
Highlighting the detrimental effects of Russia’s aggression, she remarked, “The Russian president is not only destroying our European peace order through his war against Ukraine, but is now dragging Asia into it via North Korea. My Chinese counterpart and I have therefore discussed in depth that this cannot be in China’s interest either.”
The visit comes as Germany seeks to navigate its delicate relationship with China, balancing strong trade ties with key ideological differences. Baerbock’s remarks reflect Berlin’s intent to ensure that Beijing understands its role and stakes in the conflict.
China has positioned itself as a neutral actor in the Ukraine conflict, consistently denying allegations of providing lethal aid to Russia. Beijing has refrained from condemning Moscow, citing the importance of respecting sovereign rights and avoiding interference in domestic affairs.
However, NATO countries, including Germany, have labeled China a “decisive enabler” of the war due to its continued political and economic alignment with Russia.
“Drones from Chinese factories and North Korean troops attacking the peace in the middle of Europe are violating our core European security interests,” Baerbock stated, adding that she had pressed for a “just peace process” during her discussions in Beijing.
Baerbock’s meeting with Wang Yi, described as a “strategic dialogue,” reflected both nations’ recognition of their intertwined destinies as major global economies. Wang emphasized the necessity of cooperation amid an increasingly turbulent international climate.
“As the world’s second and third largest economies, China and Germany must improve ties as great powers in a turbulent international situation,” Wang said, according to a Chinese foreign ministry readout.
While both diplomats acknowledged the importance of dialogue, the meeting revealed substantial disagreements on critical geopolitical and trade issues, with the Ukraine war dominating the agenda.
Baerbock’s visit coincided with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s surprise trip to Ukraine, underscoring Berlin’s commitment to supporting Kyiv. Scholz’s presence in the war-torn nation highlighted Germany’s ongoing aid efforts and its push for a broader international coalition to achieve peace.
“In order to protect our own German and European security, we must now support Ukraine,” Baerbock said, reiterating the need for a united global front.
However, the foreign minister’s discussions in Beijing extended beyond security concerns to include trade. Germany remains heavily reliant on Chinese markets, with the automotive sector, in particular, deeply embedded in China’s economy.
Baerbock urged China to engage constructively with the European Union on trade, particularly regarding tariffs imposed on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs). The EU recently levied additional tariffs on Chinese EVs, citing unfair subsidies that allegedly undercut European automakers.
“A level playing field, fair competition, and reciprocal market conditions are essential,” Baerbock said, according to her spokesperson.
Germany has taken a cautious stance on the EU’s measures, given the significance of the Chinese market for major German automakers like Volkswagen and BMW. With the industry facing falling profits and looming layoffs, Berlin is eager to maintain dialogue with Beijing to ensure continued market access.
Germany’s approach to China has evolved in recent years, reflecting a broader European recalibration of relations with Beijing. While Germany recognizes the importance of maintaining robust economic ties, it is increasingly concerned about China’s alignment with Russia and its growing assertiveness in global affairs.
Baerbock’s visit exemplifies Berlin’s strategy of engaging Beijing on sensitive issues while emphasizing areas of mutual interest. “We must approach this peace process together in the world,” she said, highlighting the need for collaboration even in the face of significant policy divergences.
The Ukraine conflict continues to ripple across the globe, affecting international supply chains, energy markets, and geopolitical alliances. European nations have taken a unified stance against Russian aggression, but they face challenges in convincing key players like China to adopt a more proactive role.
Baerbock’s condemnation of North Korean involvement in Ukraine and the use of Chinese-made drones highlights the war’s far-reaching consequences. The involvement of third parties, including non-European states, has intensified concerns about the conflict’s potential to escalate into a broader global crisis.
China’s balancing act between maintaining strong ties with Russia and managing its relationships with Western powers has drawn scrutiny. Beijing’s reluctance to condemn Russia, coupled with its economic support, has strained relations with the United States and its allies.
However, China remains keen on avoiding outright alienation from Europe, given its substantial trade ties with the continent. Wang Yi’s emphasis on dialogue and cooperation with Germany reflects Beijing’s desire to preserve these relationships while navigating the complexities of its alliance with Moscow.
