Germany’s Merz and China’s Xi hold first official call, discuss economic ties, Ukraine war and global cooperation

Reuters

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Chinese President Xi Jinping to support international efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire in Ukraine, during their first official phone conversation since Merz took office.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the war in Ukraine and future bilateral ties in a phone call on Friday, according to German government spokespersons.

Speaking at a press conference, deputy spokesman Sebastian Hille said Merz briefed Xi on current US-European initiatives to bring about a ceasefire in Ukraine and called on China to support these efforts.

Both leaders also underlined the importance of economic cooperation between their countries, with Merz highlighting the need for fair competition and reciprocal access to markets.

According to Hille and government spokesman Stefan Kornelius, Merz and Xi agreed to maintain direct dialogue and continue developing German-Chinese relations.

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