German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Monday called for "fair" trade with China in chips and rare earth minerals, amid heightened tensions between China and the European Union.
Wadephul, who last week was forced to cancel a planned visit to China, said he plans to speak with Chinese representatives by phone "as soon as possible and reschedule the trip".
"It's only postponed, not cancelled," Wadephul said of the visit.
Germany called off the trip after the Chinese side was unable to confirm any appointments for Wadephul in China beyond a meeting with the Chinese foreign minister.
"I believe that was the right decision in this situation. But for the German government, it's clear that we have a very long-standing, good relationship with the People's Republic of China," Wadephul said. "We are always ready for dialogue."
Chinese trade restrictions, particularly on rare earths and semiconductors, were among the issues that Wadephul intended to discuss during the visit.
China this month announced new controls on the export of rare earths, a crucial component for making magnets used in the auto, electronics, and defense industries.
The EU says the restrictions have forced some of the bloc's companies to halt production and inflicted economic harm.
Wadephul, speaking during a visit to Brussels on Monday, said that the European Union must diversify its suppliers of key minerals and components to reduce the risk of future disruptions.
"But at the same time, we are committed to ensuring that fair trade with China remains possible in all areas, including rare earths and chips," Wadephul said.
"We remain committed to this fair exchange and fair trade and believe that we will find partners in Beijing as well."
AFP
Comments