Germany and France Deepen Defense Ties, Target China’s Economic Challenges

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron committed during a bilateral meeting to deepen their defense cooperation and confront the challenges arising from China’s intense economic competition. They expressed concern that China’s overcapacity and currency devaluation are placing pressure on Europe.

These positions were articulated during a joint meeting of the German and French governments, part of their regular series of consultations. The meeting occurred as both nations work to overcome tensions stemming from the unsuccessful joint fighter jet project.

At a joint press conference, the German Chancellor emphasized both countries’ commitment to taking necessary measures for freedom, security, and collective defense. The leaders of Germany and France discussed a range of shared military objectives, including bolstering missile defense systems and enhancing long-range offensive capabilities.

Economically, the two sides also examined China’s trade policies, deeming them “incompatible with international trade rules.” According to their assessment, China’s state support for its industrial sector is at least eight times greater than that implemented in other member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

French President Macron stressed that Europe harbors no hostility towards China, either diplomatically or economically, but rather “engages with trade realities transparently.” He noted that the European continent faces a daily trade deficit of approximately one billion euros (equivalent to 1.410 billion dollars) in its trade with China.