Germany’s plea for China to take “responsibility for global peace” reveals deep concerns about Beijing’s growing alliance with Russia as the Ukraine conflict enters a critical phase.
Key Takeaways
- German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul urged China to use its influence to help resolve Russia’s war against Ukraine during a high-level call with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.
- The diplomatic outreach occurs amid Western alarm over strengthening Beijing-Moscow ties since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
- Germany’s export-heavy economy faces pressure from both sides as it navigates trade tensions with China while opposing EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
- President Trump’s trade policies are expected to contribute to Germany’s economic stagnation in 2025, with its export-oriented economy particularly vulnerable.
Germany Calls on China’s Diplomatic Influence
The German government has explicitly stated that China bears “a responsibility for global peace” following high-level diplomatic discussions about Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. In a recent phone conversation between German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Germany emphasized China’s significant influence on the global stage and its potential role in bringing about a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The call highlights growing Western concerns about the increasingly close relationship between Beijing and Moscow that has developed since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.
Germany’s foreign ministry stated unequivocally that “Russia’s war in Ukraine affects core European interests” and urged China to leverage its relationship with Moscow to help facilitate peace. The diplomatic outreach comes at a crucial moment when ceasefire efforts are gaining momentum, with President Trump scheduled to speak directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has previously expressed serious concerns about the strengthening Beijing-Moscow axis and has consistently called on China to play a constructive role in resolving the Ukraine conflict.
China’s Diplomatic Response and Position
In response to Germany’s entreaties, China has outwardly projected a stance of supporting peaceful resolution. According to China’s foreign ministry, Wang Yi expressed China’s commitment to facilitating “a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement through direct dialogue” between the conflicting parties. This carefully worded position allows China to appear constructive without committing to specific actions that might damage its relationship with Russia. Wang’s statement represents Beijing’s ongoing diplomatic balancing act as it seeks to maintain its strategic partnership with Russia while avoiding Western sanctions or economic repercussions.
The conversation between the two foreign ministers extended beyond the Ukraine conflict to address the complex economic relationship between Germany and China. Wang Yi specifically cautioned against Germany’s “de-risking” policy, suggesting it should not undermine normal bilateral cooperation. This warning reflects China’s growing concern about Western efforts to reduce economic dependence on Chinese manufacturing and supply chains. Despite these tensions, both nations recognize their significant economic interdependence, with Germany’s powerful automotive sector particularly reliant on Chinese markets for growth and profitability.
Trade Tensions and Economic Consequences
The diplomatic discussions took place against a backdrop of escalating trade tensions between China and Western powers. Wang Yi specifically addressed the contentious issue of EU tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, expressing hope for a resolution that would avoid a trade war. Germany has notably opposed these tariffs, fearing potential retaliation against its automotive industry, which remains a cornerstone of the German economy. German policymakers find themselves in the difficult position of balancing European solidarity with their need to protect vital economic interests in China.
The conversation highlighted Germany’s increasingly precarious economic position, caught between competing global powers. Economic forecasts predict zero growth for Germany in 2025, largely attributed to President Trump’s trade policies, which have placed significant pressure on Germany’s export-focused economy. While China faces substantial tariffs from the United States, the EU faces comparatively lower barriers under current American trade policies. This economic reality intensifies Germany’s need to maintain productive relations with China while simultaneously addressing security concerns related to the Ukraine conflict.
Germany’s Strategic Dilemma
Germany finds itself navigating a complex strategic landscape where its economic interests and security concerns frequently pull in opposite directions. The Merz government’s approach of “de-risking” rather than “decoupling” from China represents an attempt to reduce critical vulnerabilities while preserving beneficial economic ties. This nuanced position reflects the reality that Germany’s export-oriented economy cannot afford a complete break with the Chinese market. At the same time, Berlin cannot ignore China’s growing alignment with Russia and the direct threat this poses to European security interests, particularly in Ukraine.
Wang Yi’s advocacy for free trade and opposition to unilateralism in his discussion with Wadephul underscores the economic dimension of this diplomatic dance. For Germany, the ideal outcome would see China using its influence to moderate Russian aggression while maintaining open trade channels with European markets. However, Beijing appears determined to protect its relationship with Moscow while extracting maximum economic benefit from its ties with Germany. This leaves German policymakers with few easy options as they attempt to balance economic necessity with security imperatives in their ongoing engagement with China.
