BEIJING: China Monday strongly criticized German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock for her characterization of President Xi Jinping as a “dictator.”
The Chinese government labeled Baerbock’s comment as “an open political provocation” and deemed it “extremely absurd.”
China, being Berlin’s primary trade partner, has been at the centre of Germany’s policy deliberations, leading to the formulation of a new strategy to contend with an increasingly assertive China. The new policy, released in July, aims to strike a balance in addressing China’s role as a “partner, competitor, and systemic rival.”
Baerbock, a staunch advocate for a more assertive stance toward China, made the remarks during a Fox News interview on September 14 while visiting the United States. In the interview, she drew parallels between President Putin’s actions in Ukraine and the potential impact on other leaders, including President Xi Jinping, if Putin were to prevail. She emphasized the importance of Ukraine winning the war to send a message to dictators like Xi.
In response, China expressed its strong dissatisfaction with Baerbock’s comments and formally conveyed its concerns to the German government through diplomatic channels. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, stated during a daily news conference that the comments were a “serious infringement of China’s political dignity” and constituted “an open political provocation.”
Germany’s new China policy reflects a careful balance within its coalition government, acknowledging China as a “partner, competitor, and systemic rival.” This nuanced approach reflects the differing positions within the government, with Baerbock advocating for a more confrontational approach and a focus on human rights, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz supports a trade-friendly stance.
