Beijing hosts Merz as Berlin seeks stronger trade, strategic independence
25 February 2026

Beijing hosts Merz as Berlin seeks stronger trade, strategic independence

The Beijing Hour

About
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is on a two-day visit to China, which comes amid rising transatlantic tensions and increasing calls across Europe for greater strategic autonomy (01:04). U.S. President Donald Trump has delivered the annual State of the Union address, lashing out at the Supreme Court over a recent tariff decision (14:04). China marks the fifth anniversary of the elimination of extreme poverty in the country (23:50).