Scholz kicks off three-day China tour to discuss China's support for Russia

Reuters reported the information.

Accompanied by several German CEOs, Scholz embarked on his journey in the southwestern city of Chongqing. He will also make stops in Shanghai and Beijing, where meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang are scheduled. Notably, this visit marks Scholz's lengthiest trip to any country since assuming office.

Upon arrival, Scholz's spokesperson confirmed his condemnation of Iran's attacks on Israel.

German officials expressed optimism about Beijing's potential to help de-escalate rapidly rising tensions in the Middle East.

On Sunday, Scholz is slated to tour a hydrogen fuel cell plant operated by German automotive supplier Bosch, spotlighting the burgeoning tension zone.

The news agency highlights ongoing EU investigations into whether Chinese clean technology exports, such as battery electric vehicles, benefiting from government subsidies, have harmed local manufacturers.

Germany's automotive sector fears the investigations could trigger a trade dispute, jeopardizing its prospects in the world's largest car market.

Scholz is also expected to address China's support for Russia. German officials unequivocally stated on Friday that Beijing's backing and exports to Russia facilitate Moscow's aggression in Ukraine and tarnish China's reputation in Europe and beyond.

"The crux is that China should not endorse Russia's brutal conflict with its neighbor, Ukraine," Scholz wrote on X.

• In response to US pressure, China asserted its right to collaborate with Russia.
• China has significantly ramped up its sales of machine tools, microelectronics, and other technologies to Russia, which Moscow utilizes to manufacture missiles, tanks, aircraft, and other weaponry for the war in Ukraine.