'Microphone diplomacy' should be shunned: China Daily editorial

The China-Germany relationship is one that both countries, as well as the world, have looked to as a source of stability and progress in an increasingly turbulent global landscape. The power of diplomacy rooted in mutual respect and win-win cooperation has been a critical guarantee for the stable development of their relationship.

The postponement of German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul's visit to China late last month therefore provoked widespread consternation as it introduced an element of uncertainty into the Sino-German relationship. Amid the unfounded accusations against China in the German policy circle on issues such as China's rare earth export control measures, the Ukraine crisis and the Taiwan question, it appeared to herald a possible change of policy by Berlin.

The exchange of views by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Wadephul, at the latter's request, has therefore been a timely clearing of the air; sending a message that both sides continue to attach great importance to bilateral relations.

During their conversation, Wang stressed that the lessons drawn from past experience in the development of bilateral relations should serve as guidance for steering the ties in the right direction, highlighting that mutual respect and win-win collaboration have been the foundational principles that have underpinned the relationship between the two major economies.

These principles are not mere diplomatic platitudes; they are essential for navigating the inevitable divergences that arise from differences in history, culture and social systems. As Wang rightly pointed out, open communication and dialogue are crucial to dispel misunderstandings and avoid the potential pitfalls of "microphone diplomacy".

As two important players on the world stage, it is in the interests of both China and Germany, as well as the global community, to maintain a healthy and stable bilateral relationship. Instead of magnifying the differences that exist between them, Berlin should work with Beijing to expand the common ground on which Sino-German relations can advance steadily. It should recognize that China is not a party to the Ukraine crisis and that the one-China principle is nonnegotiable.

China has given its unconditional support to Germany's reunification. It is hoped that Germany, having experienced the pain of division itself, can fully understand and support China's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and oppose all forms of "Taiwan independence". Mutual empathy for respective core interests fosters stronger relations.

It was thus good to hear Wadephul voice Berlin's commitment to the China-Germany Strategic Dialogue on Diplomacy and Security, its unwavering adherence to the one-China principle and its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue across various fields.

Those within the German political circle seeing China as a "threat" are undoubtedly exacting a toll on Germany with their misjudgment and lack of vision. They should be reminded that many German automotive suppliers have been pushing for exemptions to Chinese export restrictions on Nexperia chips after Beijing eased its restrictions on the weekend, hoping for a political solution to a trade stand-off that has caused alarm over possible production stoppages in the car industry. That is only the latest example indicating "decoupling" from China, not to say antagonizing it, harms Germany's interests.

Germany should uphold its strategic autonomy in managing relations with China, and show its due prudence and pragmatism in handling China-related issues. Berlin has everything to gain from eschewing "microphone diplomacy" in favor of a more sober-minded approach.

Guided by the principle of mutual benefit, there remains significant potential for strengthened cooperation between China and Germany.