Chinese commerce minister holds video talks with Germany's economy minister

BEIJING -- Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao on Tuesday held a video conference with Katherina Reiche, Germany's economy and energy minister, during which they exchanged views on bilateral and China-Europe trade and economic issues.

Noting that China and Germany are important trading partners to each other, Wang said bilateral economic and trade relations have steadily progressed, with pragmatic cooperation in various fields continuously deepening. China will unswervingly promote high-standard opening up, foster a world-class business environment, and continue to offer development opportunities for foreign-funded enterprises, including German companies.

On the issue related to the semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia, Wang emphasized that the root cause of the issue lies in the improper intervention by the Dutch government in corporate internal affairs. The Dutch side is responsible for the disruption and instability in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Acting responsibly, China has made utmost efforts by exempting qualified exports to alleviate short-term global supply chain pressures, Wang said.

However, ensuring long-term stability of the global semiconductor supply chain requires the Dutch side to demonstrate a constructive attitude and take concrete actions, he added.

Wang said that China hopes Germany will play an active role in urging the Dutch government to promptly correct its mistakes, withdraw certain measures, and promote an early resolution of the issue.

Reiche said that the German government attaches great importance to developing economic and trade relations with China and admires China's economic achievements and vitality.

Noting that bilateral economic and trade cooperation benefits both sides, Reiche said Germany is willing to strengthen dialogue and exchange with China, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and promote more balanced and sustainable bilateral trade development.

Reiche said that Germany pays high attention to the Nexperia semiconductor issue and is willing to continue strengthening communication with the Netherlands.