German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is set to meet with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing on Monday to discuss allegations that China is supplying drones or drone components to support Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
Baerbock recently warned Beijing that such actions would have consequences.
The EU is currently in the process of preparing a 15th package of sanctions against Russia, which will in part target companies based in China that are involved in the manufacture of drones for Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Beijing regularly calls for de-escalation in view of Russia’s war of aggression and, according to its own statements, plans a political solution to the conflict.
However, Beijing is considered to be Moscow’s most important source of support and has not condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
The ongoing trade conflict between the EU and China is also likely to feature in the discussions, particularly over proposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Beijing is considering retaliatory measures, which could impact German carmakers.
During her visit, Baerbock is set to meet representatives of the German business community and raise human rights issues.
This marks the third meeting between Baerbock and Wang this year. They last met three months ago at the UN General Assembly in New York, following a February discussion at the Munich Security Conference.
It is Baerbock’s second visit to China as foreign minister, after her initial trip in April 2023.
Swiss
