German Foreign Minister Wadephul's plea to China on Russia: Use your influence

Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, he said, "Reaching a peaceful solution is very easy, as the only prerequisite for this is for Russia to stop its attacks on civilians and return to the negotiating table." Wadephul also demanded that China refrain from supplying materials that could support Russia's war against Ukraine.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Berlin. Wadephul and his Chinese counterpart held a press conference following their meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that during the meeting, they discussed international issues, primarily the Russia-Ukraine war, Iran's nuclear program, and relations between Europe and Asia, as well as bilateral relations. Wadephul noted that he clearly told his guest Wang Yi that the Russia-Ukraine war must end, the support provided to Russia by foreign countries must cease, and peace must be re-established in Europe. Wadephul said, "It is clear that Europe stands with Ukraine. We also rely on US support regarding sanctions, but independently of this, we will take a clear stance against this war of aggression. This is necessary to support long-term peace and security in Europe."

"THE PREREQUISITE IS FOR RUSSIA TO RETURN TO THE NEGOTIATING TABLE"

In his assessment of the Russia-Ukraine war, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said, "Reaching a peaceful solution is very easy, as the only prerequisite for this is for Russia to stop its attacks, especially those targeting civilian targets, and return to the negotiating table. I called on the Chinese government to use the existing opportunities to bring Russia to the negotiating table."

Wadephul stated, "We expect China to use its influence over Russia and to make credible and concrete efforts to end this conflict and ensure this war ends as soon as possible. Now Russia needs to sit at the negotiating table. Ukraine is ready for this."

"I EMPHASIZED ITS IMPORTANCE"

Emphasizing that Russia must be prevented from continuing the war by obtaining critical materials from foreign countries, Wadephul said, "I emphasized how important it is that critical materials do not reach Russia from China and that this war is not supported. Because this will further challenge our stability and security across Europe, Asia, and the world."

"WE BELIEVE IT CAN PLAY A CONSTRUCTIVE ROLE"

Stating that they also discussed developments in the Middle East, Wadephul said, "We believe that China can play a constructive role regarding Iran. Necessary measures must be taken to ensure full cooperation between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). I think we need to act together on this issue."

"IT HARMS US ALL"

Touching upon economic relations between China and Europe and Germany, Wadephul said, "However, fair competition and reciprocity are required for this trade to develop. Market-distorting practices implemented by China harm us all, all market participants. As the European Union, we will fight against this collectively and will use all the tools of the European Union for this."

Wadephul added, "Unfortunately, the current unilateral and often non-transparent export restrictions on rare earth elements are causing great concern for our companies. This harms our trade relations and damages China's image as a reliable trading partner in Germany."

"WE ARE STRIVING FOR PEACE"

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that China and Germany, which are among the world's most powerful economies, should strengthen mutual trade and expand cooperation. Wang Yi stated that they want to place cooperation between the two countries on a more stable and reliable political framework. Stating that they discussed the Russia-Ukraine war with Wadephul, Wang Yi said, "The Ukraine crisis is taking place in Europe, but it is being closely followed by the whole world. We understand Europe's situation very well; China's position is very clear. We are striving for peace and negotiations. China is a country with a sense of great responsibility. We always attach importance to peace talks in the Ukraine crisis. For this reason, we have clearly stated that we will not provide lethal weapons to the warring parties."

ASSURANCE FROM WANG YI

Chinese Minister Wang Yi gave assurances to German and European companies regarding the delivery of rare earth elements. Wang Yi said, "The Chinese Ministry of Commerce is implementing an accelerated procedure to ensure that the normal approval process is completed as soon as possible."

Wang Yi said, "If companies fulfill the requirements when applying for export licenses, the needs of Europe and Germany can also be met." The Chinese minister added that the export of rare earth elements, which are critical for high-tech production, would not be a source of tension between China and its European trading partners.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had embarked on a European tour covering June 30 to July 6 at the invitation of Germany, France, and the EU. Wang Yi met with EU Council President Antonio Costa and the European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas in Brussels yesterday. In the statement made after the meetings, it was announced that EU and Chinese leaders would meet at a summit this month.