Beijing: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced that China plans to purchase up to 120 aircraft from European manufacturer Airbus. This revelation came during Merz's visit to Beijing, where he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

According to Anadolu Agency, Merz highlighted the strategic significance of such diplomatic visits, stating that the potential deal underscores the value of international collaboration. Although Merz did not disclose details regarding the cost or timeline for finalizing the aircraft purchase, he emphasized the synergy created through this collaboration.

The German Chancellor also noted that the Airbus agreement exemplifies the broader impact of high-level diplomatic engagements, hinting at additional contracts with other companies that are currently under consideration. During his official visit, Merz held discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and President Xi, resulting in the signing of five intergovernmental agreements covering sectors such as the economy and agriculture.

For Airbus, China represents a strategically important market. The company has already localized production of aircraft, particularly the A320, through its assembly line in Tianjin. Historically, Beijing has maintained a balance between Airbus and American competitor Boeing by distributing bulk orders to state-owned airlines.

While Boeing was seen as a beneficiary of trade diplomacy under the administration of former US President Donald Trump, Airbus's latest deal is viewed as an effort to strengthen European presence in the Chinese market.

Merz's visit is part of a broader trend of Western leaders engaging with China, particularly at a time when US policies have strained alliances. Following visits by King Felipe VI of Spain and French President Emmanuel Macron, leaders from Ireland, Canada, Finland, and the US have also traveled to Beijing in recent years.