Chinese FM Wang Yi urges Germany to avoid ‘microphone diplomacy’ and unfounded accusations during phone call with German counterpart Johann Wadephul.
BEIJING: China’s top diplomat Wang Yi has warned Germany against engaging in “microphone diplomacy” during a phone conversation with his German counterpart.
Wang told German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul that Berlin should not “make unfounded accusations that run counter to facts” according to a Chinese foreign ministry readout.
The Chinese foreign minister specifically cautioned against “microphone diplomacy” during Monday’s call.
This exchange comes weeks after Wadephul’s planned visit to Beijing was postponed in October.
Germany’s foreign ministry stated that the trip was shelved because meetings could not be properly arranged.
“The Chinese side was ultimately able to confirm only the appointment with the Chinese foreign minister, and could not confirm any other additional appointments,” a German foreign ministry spokeswoman said.
Wadephul had intended to discuss Chinese trade restrictions during his visit, particularly those affecting rare earths and semiconductors.
Wang emphasized that “China and Germany should establish a more stable and sustainable policy framework to ensure that bilateral relations always stay on the right track.”
The world’s second and third-largest economies have traditionally maintained close relations, especially in economic matters.
However, ties have strained in recent years over various issues including trade practices and human rights concerns.
German exporters have faced challenges from both US tariff policies and Chinese export restrictions on critical materials.
Wang also reiterated that the One-China principle remains the “most important” political foundation of China-Germany relations.
“China once unconditionally supported Germany’s reunification, and hopes Germany, having experienced the pain of division, can fully understand and support China in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Wang told his German counterpart.
Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and hasn’t ruled out using force to bring the island under its control. – AFP
