Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Chancellor Merz's China Visit: Strengthening Ties Amid Tensions

2/23/2026

46 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit China for the first time next week after the Lunar New Year to strengthen economic ties.
He will meet Premier Li Qiang and President Xi Jinping to discuss cooperation and competition.
Merz emphasizes maintaining global economic relations, including with China, despite concerns over human rights and tensions.
The visit also addresses the Ukraine war, seeking China's influence to help end the conflict.

1 of 1

Story summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit China for the first time next week after the Lunar New Year to strengthen economic ties.
He will meet Premier Li Qiang and President Xi Jinping to discuss cooperation and competition.
Merz emphasizes maintaining global economic relations, including with China, despite concerns over human rights and tensions.
The visit also addresses the Ukraine war, seeking China's influence to help end the conflict.