Chancellor Friedrich Merz embarked on a significant visit to China this week with a large economic delegation, signaling a shift towards more amicable relations than previously expected. The visit raises questions about whether this approach reflects sound realpolitik or poses risks of closer ties with a strategic competitor. In the backdrop of growing German trade deficits and the influx of inexpensive Chinese goods into European markets, the visit comes at a critical juncture for Germany's economic policy and international relationships.

During his trip, Merz advocated for stronger strategic partnerships with China, emphasizing the importance of collaboration while downplaying rhetoric surrounding concerns like 'systemic rivalry' or 'de-risking'—terms that have characterized previous discussions about China. This shift signals a potentially significant change in Germany's approach to China, where the economic considerations seem to take precedence over growing geopolitical tensions. The absence of direct mentions of these tensions and the focus on partnership could indicate a new strategy moving forward.

As Germany seeks to play a pivotal role in Europe’s relationship with China, the implications of this trip are manifold. It reflects a broader effort to balance economic cooperation with national security concerns, essentially navigating the complexities of an interdependent global economy. The outcomes of Merz’s visit may set the tone for future engagements and the overall narrative surrounding Germany’s stance on China in the face of both opportunities and challenges in the international arena.