Steinmeier in China: Focus on trade surplus

Federal President in Beijing Steinmeier demands fair trade from China As of: October 30, 2026 • 5:35 p.m

Federal President Steinmeier has called on China to reduce its high trade deficit with Germany. During a meeting with President Xi, he also emphasized the responsibility of both countries to maintain the international order.

During his visit to Beijing, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier urged China's leadership to reduce the high foreign trade deficit with Germany.

"We want close trade and economic relations with one another. And in such a way that they bring lasting benefits to both sides," said Steinmeier at a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

China's economic power, its technological capabilities and its political influence have grown immensely, Steimeier continued. "I have respect for that. At the same time, we both bear responsibility for an international order, for the conditions under which states in this world maintain and shape their relationships."

Xi, who spoke before Steinmeier, made a similar argument. Both partners must take responsibility and strengthen economic cooperation. Xi spoke of "creating a new model of cooperation characterized by equality, mutual benefit and strategic stability." He emphasized that both should advocate “openness instead of isolation” and “cooperation instead of confrontation”.

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Steinmeier appealed to Xi to work together to preserve and strengthen the foundations of the global order. "The world needs China to work to preserve this order from which we have benefited."

The Federal President also emphasized that he also sees China as responsible for resolving current crises and preventing wars - especially in Ukraine, Sudan and the Middle East.

Before the conversation with Xi, Steinmeier met with Prime Minister Li Qiang. He concluded his four-day state visit to China with the political talks in Beijing.