BERLIN
Germany and China have upgraded their relationship to a new level of "comprehensive strategic partnership," German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during Chinese President Xi Jinping visit to Berlin on Friday.
The two countries signed 18 agreements in the fields of economy, energy, agriculture and foreign policy following a meeting between German and Chinese delegates at the Chancellery further deepening their strategic ties Merkel said.
Germany’s automotive giant Daimler also sealed a billion euro deal with its Chinese partner Beijing Automotive Industry Holding, while BMW signed an agreement to further deepen its cooperation with its partner Brilliance.
Merkel also announced that China will open a trading center for the Chinese yuan in Frankfurt and thanked Xi for his country’s support and show of confidence in the euro.
Closer cooperation on foreign policy was also agreed with a statement saying, "we have agreed to deepen our strategic cooperation in the fields of foreign policy and security and to strengthen our engagement for the solution regional and global conflicts."
Xi also used his time in Germany to renew his call for a political solution to the crisis in Ukraine. "China has no private interests regarding Ukraine," Xi said.
"China is committed to the basic principles of international relations, including not interfering in the domestic affairs of other countries and to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries."
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