Kathmandu. Chinese President Xi Jinping and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have pledged to continue efforts to deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries in an era of global turmoil, despite Russia’s war in Ukraine and trade squabbles.

“The more complex and turbulent the world becomes, the more China and Germany need to strengthen mutual trust and strategic communication,” Xi said. Merz responded by saying that despite the differences between the two countries, it was necessary for both to emphasize a common purpose and face a joint challenge.

The C-Merger talks focused on the Ukraine war, the trade deficit and the challenges to the global economy. Germany’s trade deficit with China widened last year, with exports falling 9.7 percent to 81.3 billion euros ($81.3 billion) and imports up 8.8 percent to 170.6 billion euros. Merz said he hoped deals with Chinese partners, such as Airbus aircraft orders, would help boost business prospects.

Xi also called for “equal engagement” with Europe and Germany and addressing the legitimate concerns of all sides. They said they would give priority to efforts to enhance mutual understanding in the areas of conflict resolution and security, economic cooperation.

Merge’s two-day visit is also scheduled to take him on a visit to a major company in Hangzhou that manufactures humanoid robots, which will help him observe China’s technological capabilities. The visit is of strategic importance in the context of Europe-China relations and international trade as it precedes the visit to Washington.