German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that he does not want a new trade conflict with China, but seeks an open dialogue on the imbalances that are damaging European industry, APA reports.
"I don't want a new trade conflict with China, but I do want an open dialogue about these imbalances. And these imbalances are damaging our industry," Merz said at a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron following the Franco-German Council of Ministers. He added that China is also dependent on Europe, with its 450 million consumers.
"The European Union, with its 450 million consumers, is China's most important foreign market. Therefore, we are talking about mutual dependence," the German Chancellor emphasized. In this context, he advocated for a rational discussion between the European Union and China.
"I am not prepared to accept that the situation will remain as it is now, since this will unilaterally hit jobs in Europe," Merz concluded.