German Chancellor Angela Merkel is no stranger to China.
Many still cherish fond memories of her last visit here, when
she took a walk with Premier Wen Jiabao in a Beijing park and then
chatted with people doing their morning exercises.
That walk left a favorable impression on Chinese minds. People
appreciated the amiable German guest, as well as the special
closeness between the two countries.
The German chancellor and her Chinese counterpart took another
stroll yesterday afternoon and then had tea together before
attending a concert to commemorate the 35th anniversary of
Sino-German diplomatic ties and inaugurating the three-year
"Germany and China - Moving Ahead Together" program.
We like the way their meetings were arranged. The casual manner
assures us that the relationship between the countries they
represent is healthy. It is amazing that despite the differences in
their political institutions, the two countries have managed to
forge such a constructive partnership.
As with many other foreign countries, we have a lot to share
with our German friends. Sino-German relations have been so warm
because the two sides occupy common ground. We are confident in the
35-year relationship because it is based on mutual understanding
and benefit.
Business is no doubt an important aspect of our common
interests. As with her last trip, Chancellor Merkel brought with
her a team of German business leaders. They will find a sea of
opportunities here.
But the room for collaboration goes far beyond business.
The "Germany and China" program, for instance, can be expected
to expand and upgrade our friendship. Exposing the average Chinese
to the many facets of German culture will deepen their
understanding of Germany as a country that can be trusted.
We hope to see a similar event showcasing China in Germany.
The concert Premier Wen and Chancellor Merkel attended last
night was presented jointly by young Chinese and German musicians.
The classical ballet "Romeo and Juliet" Merkel will see in Nanjing
will feature a German Romeo and Chinese Juliet.
Such arrangements are reminiscent of the fine partnership
between the two countries.
As the amount of common ground between the countries increases,
our leaders will find a more comfortable platform to handle common
concerns and differences, be it on climate change, copyright issues
or Darfur.
(China Daily August 28, 2007)
