Scholz’s China Visit Sparks Green Tech & Trade Momentum

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-day visit to the Chinese mainland wrapped up this week with a focus on turbocharging economic ties and green innovation. From touring EV factories to climate talks, here’s why this trip matters for global trade and the planet.

Bridging Business & Sustainability

Scholz didn’t just bring diplomacy to Beijing—he packed a delegation of German business leaders. Highlighting partnerships like Bosch’s joint venture with Qingling Motors in Chongqing and Covestro’s polymer R&D in Shanghai, the visit underscored Germany’s push for innovation-driven collaboration. With China dominating renewable tech markets, Kuhn called fair competition vital: \"Bringing down [green tech] prices is essential for the global energy shift.\"

Students, Startups, and Shared Goals

Beyond boardrooms, Scholz dropped by Shanghai’s Tongji University, a hotspot for Sino-German academic exchanges. Both leaders emphasized rebuilding people-to-people ties post-pandemic, with Xi Jinping noting student exchanges as a cornerstone for trust. \"Cooperation in sciences can revive relations,\" Kuhn added.

Climate Frontrunners Unite?

With Germany’s Climate Initiative and China’s solar dominance, the two nations are aligning on sustainability. A 2023 climate pact and new GIZ-led projects signal deeper collaboration. But as U.S. warnings about China’s green tech \"overcapacity\" linger, Kuhn argues: \"Replacing Chinese solar panels isn’t realistic—affordable tech accelerates the transition.\"

From BMWs to batteries, this visit proves even geopolitical rivals can’t ignore shared economic and environmental stakes. Stay tuned as the EU’s climate minister gears up for his own China tour later this year!

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Scholz's visit: A promising momentum in China-Germany ties

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