Xi calls on Germany’s Scholz to mediate in EU-China dispute over EV tariffs

Chinese President Xi Jinping called German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday to assist in resolving the European Union’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.

The discussion took place on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, where Xi emphasised China’s willingness to strengthen its strategic partnership with Germany. He also expressed hope that the EU and China could address the tariff dispute through dialogue and negotiation, which has heightened fears of a trade conflict between Beijing and the bloc.

“It is hoped that Europe and China will resolve the issue of electric vehicles through dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible, and the German side is willing to make active efforts in this regard,” a readout from Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported citing Xi as saying.

A German government spokesperson stated that the 30-minute meeting between Scholz and Xi also covered pressing geopolitical topics, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Scholz raised concerns about potential escalations linked to North Korea’s reported deployment of troops to support Russia in Ukraine, a claim made by the United States.

Scholz further described his recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin as “sobering” and reiterated the need for diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, according to the German statement.

Xi’s visit to South America began with his participation in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Lima, Peru, where he inaugurated a Chinese-funded Pacific port. Following the G20 summit, Xi is scheduled to visit Brasilia for a state meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, during which they are expected to sign multiple cooperation agreements.

Attribution: Reuters