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German Chancellor Promises Not to Sell Arms to Taiwan
Germany will stick to the "One China" principle and not sell submarine to Taiwan, says visiting German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder in Beijing, November 1.
Schroeder made the promise in a speech delivered at Beijing University highlighting the building of the Germany-China partnership in an ever-changing world and he said Germany had refused for many times the demand to sell submarines to Taiwan, which won long applaud from audience, as reported.
Schroeder said that Germany and China should develop a long-standing partnership on the basis of mutual trust and common interests.
The Chancellor said that in a world of constant changes, such a partnership is of great importance to both countries. At present, the two have established close and reliable relations of mutual confidence in the spheres of politics, economics, technology and culture, and the two countries have also strengthened their cooperation in the sphere of security, he said.
China, the country with the largest population in the world, and as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and an upcoming economic power, should play greater role at the international and regional levels, he said.
The chancellor said the new ways of production and the globalized market have intensified the uncertainties of the world, and a globalized world should give equal chances to all.
He also said problems facing all mankind, such as regional conflicts, terrorism, environmental protection and poverty reduction, should be dealt with within the framework of the United Nations.
He said that when adjusting the current international political relations, the interests of every nation should be considered.
Germany is currently the biggest European trade partner of China and Schroeder's visit is aimed at lifting the bilateral ties. During the three-day visit business contracts valued US$10 billion will be signed.
Besides, Germany-based Siemens company would sell electricity transmitting equipment valued US$300 million to China and the Bayer company will also plan to invest US$3.4 billion in China in 2008.
By PD Online Staff Li Heng
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