German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Monday visited Shanghai, the second leg of his China visit, and spoke at Tongji University, emphasizing pressing global issues and advocating for increased bilateral exchanges between the two countries.
During his speech at the university, founded by a German doctor in 1907, Scholz engaged with students and emphasized the deep educational ties between Germany and China.
"Thank you for the invitation, for the opportunity to speak here again. It is indeed very touching to be here again, albeit in a different place as far as the university itself is concerned, and to discuss the future of China, Germany, the world, and the issues that move us together," Scholz stated.
Scholz highlighted pressing global issues, including climate change and global security.
"Indeed, there are many issues that we need to advance, especially those that have to do with man-made climate change, with the merging of a global world that will soon have about ten billion inhabitants by 2050, and with the question of how we manage to ensure peace and security. This is also something that I will naturally discuss when I am in Beijing tomorrow. I will discuss with the head of government the issues that affect the world. But it is something that I like to discuss even more with the people who are paving the way for the future," said Scholz.
The Chancellor also stressed the importance of scientific exchange and cooperation.
"The fact that we need scientific exchange is also part of this, so I am pleased that it has started again. The pandemic period was not so favorable, which contributed to the fact that much of the exchange that took place, in conversation, and on the first page in getting to know each other, has become less. But now it is different again, and therefore I hope that the discussions will increase again and the mutual visits and the exchange as well. I know at least that many students from China study in Germany, and the number of Germans coming to China is also increasing. In this respect, this is good news. I look forward to the discussion. Have a nice day!" Scholz concluded.
Shanghai is the second stop on Scholz's three-day official visit to China, which began on Sunday. Prior to arriving in Shanghai, he visited Chongqing Municipality in southwest China.
This trip is Scholz’s second visit to China since he took office in 2021.
Scholz discusses global challenges while visiting Tongji University
Scholz discusses global challenges while visiting Tongji University
