German president says China has become a country of pivotal importance in today's world
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said China has grown into a country of pivotal importance in the world today, highlighting the strengthening of its economic and technological capabilities as well as its expanding political influence.
He made the remarks during talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Friday.
Steinmeier arrived in Hefei City, east China's Anhui Province, early Tuesday morning to begin a five-day state visit at Xi's invitation. It was his first state visit to China in eight years.
A welcome ceremony for the German president, hosted by Xi, was held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Friday afternoon. The two leaders then held talks on bilateral relations and other issues of common concern.
"This is my eighth trip to China, and every time I come, I see a China that is changing with each passing day. Over the past few years, China has grown into a country of pivotal importance, and its economic strength, technological strength, and political influence have all been greatly enhanced -- something I admire," Steinmeier said.
According to CCTV+, the German president highlighted China's far-reaching changes and its growing standing in the global economy, technology and international affairs.
