From the Imperial Palace to High-Tech Robots: Merz Concludes China Trip - Germany's Merz Strengthens Trade and Diplomacy in Landmark China Visit

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz concluded a two-day visit to China on 26 February 2026, focusing on trade, technology, and diplomatic ties. During his trip, he met with top Chinese leaders and toured key industrial sites, including Mercedes-Benz, Siemens Energy, and a robotics manufacturer. The visit also saw a major Airbus deal and calls for China to play a role in ending the war in Ukraine.

Merz began his visit in Beijing, where he held talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and President Xi Jinping. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. The Chancellor later explored the Forbidden City, guided by Dominic Hosner of the German Archaeological Institute. There, he left a personal note in the guestbook, including lines from Schiller's poetry.

At Mercedes-Benz's Beijing facility, Merz test-drove a near-fully autonomous S-Class model. The visit highlighted Germany's push for advanced automotive technology in the Chinese market. He also travelled to Hangzhou, where he toured a Siemens Energy plant producing high-voltage circuit breakers through a Chinese joint venture.

In Shanghai, Merz announced a major order for up to 120 Airbus aircraft, boosting European aerospace ties with China. He also visited Unitree, a robotics firm, where humanoid machines demonstrated kung fu moves and practical tasks like kitchen chores and inspections.

Beyond trade, Merz urged Beijing to use its influence over Moscow to help end Russia's war in Ukraine. Economic discussions centred on fairer market access for German firms and reducing the trade deficit with China.

The trip reinforced Germany's industrial and technological partnerships with China, involving key firms like Mercedes-Benz, Siemens Energy, and Airbus. Merz's diplomatic push included both economic cooperation and a call for China's role in resolving the Ukraine conflict. The outcomes of the visit will likely shape future trade and political relations between the two nations.