German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said Friday that China has grown into a country of pivotal importance in the world of today, highlighting its economic and technological strengths as well as its expanding political influence in global affairs.
Steinmeier made the remarks during his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing.
The German president arrived in Hefei City of east China's Anhui Province early on Tuesday morning to begin a five-day state visit at Xi's invitation, which marks his first state visit to China in eight years.
Steinmeier attended a welcome ceremony held by Xi at the Great Hall of the People in the Chinese capital on Friday afternoon. Afterwards, the two leaders held talks on bilateral ties 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 during his talks with Xi.
German president says China has grown into country of pivotal importance
