Germany announces important strategy, "showing attitude" towards China

Reuters described the 76-page document, drafted by Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition, published on June 14. This is the first time in its history that Germany has published a National Security Strategy and sees China as "both a partner and an object."

Accordingly, Germany still considers China as its largest trading partner in its economic development strategy. However, the document also accuses China of seeking to increase its power in Asia and using economic power to achieve political goals.

"Beijing is constantly acting against Berlin's interests in its efforts to reshape the global order," Germany's first National Security Strategy stressed.

Đức chỉ rõ “đối tượng” và “đối tác” chiến lược - Ảnh 1.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz during the announcement of Germany's first National Security Strategy in Berlin on June 14, 2023. Photo: REUTERS

The document also identifies "Russia as currently the most significant threat in the Euro-Atlantic region," referring to Moscow's conflict in neighboring Ukraine.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has deeply affected Germany, forcing Berlin to abandon old policies and instead rebuild strong armed forces.

Therefore, Germany's first National Security Strategy also commits to spending 2% of GDP on the defense budget.

Introducing the strategy, Chancellor Olaf Scholz said a major change was being made in the way security policy was addressed, moving from a purely military strategy to an integrated security concept.

The document also addresses threats from climate change to supply chain disruptions.

Other measures in the strategy include reducing dependence on other countries for goods and encouraging companies to hold strategic reserves, a reference to Germany's past overreliance on Russian energy.

In fact, Germany's dependence on Russian gas prevented it from immediately cutting off energy trade with Moscow after the conflict in Ukraine broke out in late February last year.

Notably, Germany released the strategy document just days before Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited Berlin.

China and Russia have yet to comment on Germany's first National Security Strategy.