Chancellor Scholz in China: the focus is on the economy, politics is just a side issue

Chancellor Scholz in China: the focus is on the economy, politics is just a side issue

Chancellor Olaf Scholz made his second trip to China during his term in office. This trip spans three days, a longer duration than his previous visits to other countries. This demonstrates the importance of China for the German government, which is pursuing a specific China strategy to adapt to the changes and challenges in China.

The main focus of the trip is on economic issues, with the first two days dedicated to economic aspects. Chongqing is the start, followed by Shanghai, before Scholz finally reaches Beijing to meet President Xi Jinping. Critics are concerned about the emphasis on economic issues, fearing that pressing political issues such as human rights will be neglected.

A particularly serious issue that Scholz wants to address in Beijing is China's role in Russia's war against Ukraine. Beijing is on the side of the Kremlin and is suspected by the USA of supplying Russia with military-related goods. Despite doubts from experts about a possible change in China's behavior due to criticism from the German chancellor, it is still crucial for Scholz to discuss these concerns directly with Xi Jinping in order to clearly state Germany's position.

In addition to economic and political issues, Scholz will also address the human rights situation in China, particularly with regard to the oppression of the Uyghurs and Tibet. Human rights activists are calling for Scholz to be more committed to these issues, but they criticize the Chancellery's lack of reaction and prioritization of these issues. As advice to avoid being exploited for political purposes, Scholz is recommended to avoid hugging pandas in order to avoid mere symbolic politics.