German chancellor urges global trade alliance as Germany deepens Indo-Pacific ties
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for a global political alliance to defend rules-based trade, urging Germany and Indo-Pacific economies to strengthen economic partnerships and diversify supply chains as geopolitical tensions and intensifying U.S.-China competition reshape the global economy. Speaking at the opening of the 19th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK) in Seoul on…
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has advocated for a global political alliance to safeguard trade based on rules, emphasizing the need for Germany and Asian-Pacific nations to bolster economic ties and broaden their supply networks amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and escalating US-China rivalry. During the inaugural session of the 19th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK) in Seoul on Friday, Merz proposed creating a worldwide political alliance dedicated to maintaining a rules-based trade system, aiming to enhance coordination and concerted efforts in safeguarding the global trading framework when it encounters challenges.
Merz stated, "When supply chains transform into political tools, when access to vital technologies is jeopardized, or when the quest for raw materials becomes a means of wielding power rather than a fair partnership, this endangers growth, prosperity, and ultimately, security." He added, "Countries that disengage from global trade forfeit security, innovation, prosperity, and scope for action.
Our aspiration is not to recede but to expand our opportunities for action." Referring to bilateral relations, the chancellor highlighted the potential for Germany and Korea to foster deeper economic cooperation.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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