German Chancellor Merz Calls on Xi Jinping to Support Ukraine Ceasefire Effort

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in his first phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping since taking office, urged China to support the joint European and US efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine amid Russia's ongoing war of aggression. Merz emphasized that the conflict directly impacts Germany's national security and highlighted the recent negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, including a prisoner exchange agreement and plans for further talks. Both leaders expressed readiness to cooperate on global challenges and discussed the importance of fair competition in economic relations between Germany and China. Xi Jinping called for stable and predictable ties amid rapid global changes, reflecting the complex geopolitical environment. The call underscores the strategic significance of China's role, given its close ties with Russia, in facilitating peace efforts. Merz and Xi agreed to continue their direct dialogue to further develop German-Chinese cooperation.