When Olaf Scholz will hold talks in Beijing, things will be tougher for him than for his predecessors. China's understanding of foreign policy has changed. It sees itself as the spearhead of a new global balance of power. Its partners are also feeling this.
Von Christiane Kuehl
From a communicative perspective, the timing of the Chancellor's trip is ideal: After Covid and the Party Congress and before important summit meetings, Olaf Scholz visits Beijing to pioneer and pave the way for urgently necessary dialogue. Even more important than the topics discussed, is the chemistry between Xi and Scholz.
Von Experts Table.Briefings
Wenn Olaf Scholz in Peking Gespräche führt, hat er es schwerer als seine Vorgänger. Denn Chinas Verständnis von Außenpolitik hat sich gewandelt. Es sieht sich als Speerspitze einer Neuordnung der weltweiten Machtverhältnisse. Das bekommen die Partner auch handfest zu spüren.
Von Christiane Kuehl
Chancellor Olaf Scholz himself must be surprised that he has to face so much criticism for his visit to China. In the past, such a trip was merely routine; nowadays, it contradicts the spirit of his own "Zeitenwende" (change of times). One day before departure, the Chancellor's Office had to justify the visit and sounded surprisingly defensive. In reality, the German economy is more dependent on China than ever before.
Von Redaktion Table
