Backgrounder: China, Germany seek deeper ties

Source: CCTV.com | 08-27-2007 08:51

This year marks the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Germany. Many analysts say Angela Merkel's second visit to China as German Chancellor will deepen cooperation.

Sino-German relations have been developing smoothly in recent years.

In 2004, the two countries agreed to establish a partnership of global responsibility within the framework of the Sino-European comprehensive strategic partnership, and expand consultations on global issues.

Frequent meetings between the leaders have helped deepen understanding and promoted economic and cultural cooperation.

During German Chancellor Angela Merkel's two-day visit last year, the two countries reached consensus on a wide-range of issues and signed 19 agreements.

Liu Liqun, research fellow Academy of Social Sciences, said, "Relations between China and Germany have reached a high point these years. China's rapid economic development attracts investment from many German companies. And advanced German technologies for environmental protection and energy saving can help China's sustainable development. There is huge potential in economic and technological cooperation."

Merkel took office in 2005. She has won plaudits for overseeing a shift in foreign policy that has brought Berlin closer to Washington and put relations with Moscow on a more even keel.

But some Chinese analysts say relation with China relations will be a high priority during her term.

Liu Liqun said, "Before Merkel became the German Chancellor, she had visited China once as a government minister. But six months after taking office, she visited China. Although bilateral relations continue to grow, problems also emerge in China's economic development, such as environmental protection. And there is anti-China from some western media. Solving these problems requires deeper understanding and cooperation between the two countries."

China and Germany are also expanding exchanges in culture and education.

Analysts say the exchanges both at the official level and between individuals can help ties move forward.

Editor:Du Xiaodan