German Foreign Minister Johann Vardepoel postponed his planned visit to China after the Chinese government confirmed only a meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi and no additional senior officials would be appointed.
Germany’s Die Welt newspaper reported on Saturday that the cancellation was seen as a foreign policy setback for Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has yet to make his first visit to China after nearly six months in office.
The Prime Minister’s Office had secured dates for possible trips to China and India next week, but President Xi Jinping reportedly did not have time to receive Merz that day.
The delay highlights the delicate stage of Berlin’s readjustment toward Beijing, as the government seeks to “de-risk” while maintaining economic ties.
Die Welt expects Merz and Waddepoul to face challenges in the coming weeks as domestic scrutiny of the government’s approach to China could become even more intense.
The paper also notes the sensitivity of Germany’s industrial interests as officials consider their involvement in the strategic conflict.
The episode follows heightened friction between the EU and China over trade and technology regulations, with an emphasis on strong, high-level channels to manage differences.