China and Europe should not fight trade wars, says Chinese foreign minister

China's foreign minister Wang Yi has advised Europe against engaging in trade wars with China, emphasizing that both nations are comprehensive strategic partners, according to a statement from the Chinese foreign ministry. The call was made to his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, with Wang asserting that mutual benefits and the right choice lie in strengthening cooperative relations.

China has always advocated for dialogue and consultation to resolve disputes, he added. The Chinese government hopes Germany maintains a rational and pragmatic stance within the EU, promoting free trade and rejecting protectionism. Both nations share the interest in a stable global economy, according to the statement from Germany's foreign ministry.

The ministers also discussed Iran, Ukraine, and the issue of Taiwan, with China urging Germany to take concrete actions to maintain Chinese-German relations and promote peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan's increased engagement with European nations, including Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim's recent trips to Europe and Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung's rare visit to Germany, has raised concerns in China.