Habeck aims to advocate for German and European perspectives in the Chinese sphere
Robert Habeck elaborated on Germany's strategic approach towards China, stating it's not just about occasional business deals, but a comprehensive plan to gauge political moves. He clarified that this is Germany's China strategy, emphasizing the diverse approaches across Europe. integration being essential.
During his East Asia journey, Habeck ventured from South Korea to China on Friday. In Beijing, he's set to connect with a variety of cabinet colleagues on Saturday, according to Habeck. Regrettably, a scheduled meeting with China's Prime Minister Li Qiang was called off.
The visit to the People's Republic is shrouded in tension. A trade disagreement between the EU and China is simmering, predominantly focused on potential tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Until early July, a grace period remains, offering a chance for negotiations. From July onwards, increased tariffs could be imposed if no resolution is reached.
There's a significant divide within the EU on this matter. The German administration is against the tariffs, being mindful of the extensive involvement of the German automobile industry in China. The grace period was granted by Brussels primarily due to pressure from Berlin. However, the specific negotiations are handled by the EU Commission, as Habeck reiterated multiple times.
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Robert Habeck, in alignment with EU interests, seeks to uphold German perspectives during his discussions in Beijing, acknowledging the complexity of China's sphere. Despite the cancellation of his meeting with China's Prime Minister Li Qiang, Habeck will still engage with various Chinese cabinet colleagues. The EU and China are currently at odds over potential tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, a disagreement that Habeck and the German Federal Government are closely monitoring, especially given Germany's significant automobile industry involvement in China. Habeck emphasizes that while Berlin influences the EU's decision to offer a grace period, the specific negotiations fall under the jurisdiction of the EU Commission.
