Habeck remarks that China's backing of Russia is negatively impacting trade ties with Europe.
Criticisms were lodged regarding the shipment of supposed Dual-Use Items from China to Russia, which can be utilized for both civilian and military purposes. The Minister announced a 40% surge in trade with Russia, with nearly half attributed to Dual-Use Items. Habeck voiced concerns, stating, "Regrettably, one cannot help but think that these items can't only be employed in the military realm but also be exploited."
Dual-Use Items encompass testing and measuring equipment, valves, or electronic parts. "We can't allow it to be the case that these technical goods we export to other nations end up indirectly and eventually directly supporting Russia's aggressive war," Habeck continued. Europe should ensure "we aren't undermining our own safety interests by trading these goods."
China has declared their refusal to supply military equipment to Russia, according to Habeck. He suggested, "Perhaps this clarity could extend to Dual-Use Items as well, preventing the delivery of items that can, to some degree, be safely used within the military complex." Such a measure could also bolster our economic relationship, he added.
No agreement has yet been reached with China in regards to Germany and Europe's view of this war, emphasized Habeck. He stressed, "For Germany, this offense is not a local conflict between two countries settling their boundary disputes. 'For us, this aggressive war poses a threat to our own security situation, as the inviolability of borders (...) is the foundation for peace in Europe.'"
Habeck is scheduled to travel to China on Friday, concluding his East Asia trip from South Korea. In Beijing, he was to meet representatives of the Chinese government, but a planned meeting with China's Prime Minister Li Qiang was cancelled.
China claims neutrality in the Ukraine war. The Western allies of Ukraine charge Beijing with failing to denounce Russia's aggressive war. Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin has been a guest of China since the war's inception; during these visits, both sides have praised their strategic partnership.
