Chancellor Scholz and Xi Discuss Trade and Security

During a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed critical global issues, including the war in Ukraine and EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Scholz emphasized the need for open dialogue on contentious topics, particularly China's support for Russia, while Xi urged for a resolution to the electric vehicle tariff dispute to prevent economic fallout. Both leaders acknowledged their countries' significant influence and the importance of maintaining a strategic partnership. Scholz highlighted the necessity of a level playing field in economic activities amidst rising tensions. Scholz's comments on Ukraine reflect the ongoing divide between Germany, which supports Ukraine, and China’s tacit support for Russia. The discussions highlight the complexities of EU-China relations and the geopolitical implications of their economic ties.