25.02.2026 21:57
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who joined the ranks of Western leaders visiting China during a time when U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies and unilateral political moves have alienated allies, announced that the Beijing government is preparing to place an order for approximately 120 aircraft from the European aircraft manufacturer Airbus. Merz also stated that similar agreements for other German companies are on the way.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that the Chinese government is preparing to place a huge order with the European aircraft manufacturer Airbus.
ORDER FOR 120 AIRCRAFT FROM AIRBUS
After a dinner meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, Merz told reporters, "We have just received information that the Chinese government will order a significant number of aircraft from Airbus. A total of up to 120 additional aircraft is expected to be ordered."
"WE HAVE MORE CONTRACTS TO BE FINALIZED"
Not providing details on the purchase price of the aircraft or when the agreement will be finalized, Merz emphasized that this collaboration creates significant synergy. He stated that the example of Airbus proves the importance of such high-level diplomatic visits and expressed that similar agreements are on the way for other German companies. Merz said, "We have more contracts to be finalized."
During his first official visit at the chancellorship level, Merz met with his counterpart Li Qiang and President Jinping, noting that they also signed five different intergovernmental agreements covering the fields of economy and agriculture during the visit.
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE FOR AIRBUS
On the other hand, China, which holds strategic importance for Airbus, has localized the production of A320 aircraft, particularly with its assembly line in Tianjin. The Beijing administration traditionally places bulk orders while maintaining the balance between Airbus and American Boeing, distributing these aircraft to state-owned airlines.
Analysts point out that Merz's announcement comes just before the expected visit of U.S. President Donald Trump to China. While the American manufacturer Boeing is expected to benefit from the commercial diplomacy during the Trump era, Airbus's move is interpreted as an attempt to solidify Europe's position in the market.
WESTERN LEADERS TURNING TO CHINA AGAINST U.S. PRESSURE
Chancellor Merz joined the ranks of Western leaders visiting China at a time when U.S. President Trump's tariff policy and unilateral political moves have alienated Western allies.
After the visits of King Felipe VI of Spain in November 2025 and French President Emmanuel Macron in December 2025, this year, Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have visited Beijing.