In terms of tone and posture, compared with the previous characterization of China as a "systemic rival," Merz"s position ahead of his visit to China appears noticeably more cautious, Jiang noted. "I hope that through in-depth exchanges during the visit, the relationship can move a step further forward."

　　When asked to comment on Merz"s remarks before departing for Beijing, in which, unlike the previous government, Merz didn"t speak of China as a "systemic rival," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Wednesday that China and Germany are all-round strategic partners. There are successful practices of sound competition and integrated development between the two countries. China-Germany cooperation is mutually beneficial, bringing tangible benefits to our two peoples.

　　The German Chancellor is leading a 30-firm delegation during the visit including top carmakers such as Volkswagen and BMW. German business circles are also optimistic about the visit.

　　"We hope the visit will lead to pragmatic exchanges between the two governments - also after the visit. Our member companies wish the Chancellor to address some of their current challenges, including supply chain stability and reliability. But probably he will also take home the understanding of the dynamic and competitive Chinese business environment, and the role that German-Sino cooperation can play therein," Oliver Oehms, Executive Director & Board Member of the German Chamber of Commerce in China-North China, told the Global Times in an exclusive interview on Wednesday.

　　In 2025, Germany remained China"s top European trade partner; China reclaimed spot as Germany"s No.1 trading partner after one year, with trade value totaling 1.51 trillion yuan, up 5.2 percent year-on-year, according to Chinese customs.