China to buy up to 120 Airbus aircraft, Germany's Merz says during Beijing visit

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Wednesday during his inaugural visit to China, which is Germany's largest trade partner. The discussions aimed to deepen economic ties between the two nations, with both sides emphasizing the importance of cooperation ahead of the talks. This visit comes as part of a broader effort by Germany to stabilize its relationship with China amid ongoing economic challenges and geopolitical tensions. During the meeting, it was reported that China is set to purchase up to 120 Airbus aircraft, highlighting a significant aspect of the economic collaboration between the two countries. The talks also included discussions on fair trade practices and the need for Germany to address its economic dependencies on China, which Merz has previously described as making the country "susceptible to blackmail." This reflects a growing concern within Germany regarding its reliance on Chinese markets and the potential risks associated with such dependencies. Merz's visit follows a series of engagements by world leaders in China, as the country seeks to strengthen its international relationships, particularly in light of trade tensions and tariffs imposed by the United States. The discussions are part of a larger narrative where Germany is navigating its economic strategy in response to the competitive pressures from China and the evolving global trade landscape. The outcome of these talks may influence future trade policies and economic relations between Germany and China.