7 December 2025
German foreign minister to discuss ‘urgent international challenges’ in China
Germany’s Foreign Minister, Johann Wadeful (CDU), is visiting China on Monday, where he says he wants to “find common solutions” to “urgent international challenges”, including global trade sanctions, Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and tensions over Taiwan.
“No other country has as much influence over Russia as China,” Wadefull said in a statement. “No other country can use its power to ensure that Russia finally shows readiness to enter into serious negotiations that respect Ukraine’s sovereignty.”
Despite claiming neutrality in the conflict, China has faced accusations of supporting the Russian war effort. “It is in China’s interests to contribute to achieving a just and durable peace in Ukraine,” Wadefull said.
Another potential conflict is brewing in China’s own backyard, with Beijing continuing to insist that Taiwan is a Chinese province that should be brought back under its control, with military force if needed.
“As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China bears the responsibility for peace and stability in the world,” Wadefull said. He called on Beijing to respect the UN Charter and refrain from the use of violence.
On his two-day visit to China, Wadefull will also address trade issues such as the rare earth export ban imposed by Beijing in response to tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. Precious metals are vital to many modern technologies from electric vehicles to wind turbines to computer chips.
German carmakers are particularly affected by the sanctions – as well as by Chinese state subsidies for the production of electric vehicles. The EU has accused Beijing of flooding the market with cheap Chinese models at prices that European manufacturers cannot compete with.
Wadefull’s visit to China was originally scheduled for late October, but was postponed at short notice – officially due to scheduling difficulties, but more likely due to the German Foreign Minister’s criticism of Beijing’s policy towards Taiwan.