German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced Wednesday his intention to pursue “strategic partnerships” with China during an upcoming visit, as his country navigates rising tensions over President Trump’s tariff agenda.
Speaking at his political party’s Ash Wednesday gathering in Passau, Bavaria, Merz outlined Germany’s approach to international relations amid growing trade disputes.
“We have a strategic interest in finding partners in the world who think the way we do, who act the way we do, and who above all are prepared to shape the future together so that we remain a country with prosperity and a high level of social security,” Merz stated during the event.
The German leader emphasized that foreign and economic policies have become inseparable in today’s global landscape.
Addressing the Trump administration’s trade approach directly, Merz said: “If the Americans believe that, with their tariff policy, they should exert influence around the world — if they believe that tariffs are more important than taxes at home — then that is something Americans can, of course, decide for themselves. But it is not our policy.”
Trump’s aggressive tariff strategy has created strain between traditional allies, potentially threatening bilateral trade relationships and posing additional risks to Germany’s already weakened economy.
Merz made clear Germany’s position on the tariff issue, declaring: “You can do it, but we will not go along with it. And if you overdo it, then we Europeans are certainly able to defend ourselves against it.”
The Chancellor pointed to recent European unity during disputes involving Greenland as evidence that the continent can respond collectively to American pressure, suggesting the European Union would take action if Washington escalates tariff measures.
Describing Germany’s balanced approach, Merz explained: “That is our double strategy: an outstretched hand and, at any time, a renewed partnership — but also enough cohesion and unity within the European Union so that we can defend ourselves sufficiently against things we do not want.”
