On October 24, 2008, Chinese President Hu Jintao met at the Great Hall of the People with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who is here for an official visit and to attend the seventh summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM).

While meeting with Merkel, Hu said the relationship between China and Germany is progressing forward in a sound way, with the bilateral economic and trade ties expanding rapidly, despite the current global financial turmoil. The two countries have also maintained close high-level contacts, conducted fruitful cooperation on culture, education, youth and judicature and kept sound communication and coordination in major international and regional affairs. Hu stressed that the good developing momentum of Sino-German relationship is hard-earned and should be treasured by both sides.

Hu noted that China regards Germany as an important cooperative partner, and recognizes the important role of Germany in European and international affairs. The two countries are both at an important stage of development. Although China and Germany have different domestic conditions, they share wide-ranging and important common interests and there are no fundamental conflicts of interest between the two. Hu said that the Chinese side is willing to join hands with Germany to treat and deal with bilateral ties from a "strategic and long-term" point of view, firmly grasp common interests and further push forward a healthy Sino-German relationship. The president urged both sides to take into consideration their common interests, stick to the principle of mutual respect, equality and reciprocity, properly handle differences and deepen cooperation through strengthened exchanges and dialogues. During the meeting, Hu also briefed Merkel on China's position on the current global financial crisis. He introduced China’s policy measure, expressing willingness to keep contact with the German side on the relevant issues.

Merkel agreed that the Germany-China relationship developed well and both sides have sent a strong signal to further boost bilateral ties. She stressed that it is especially necessary for Germany and China to strengthen their cooperation in economy and trade when the world economy is having difficulties. Merkel said international cooperation must be strengthened to fight against the financial crisis, and a new international financial system should be built. Merkel also expressed her appreciation for China's important role in dealing with global challenges, and expected to strengthen inter-governmental negotiations with China in political, economic, cultural and international affairs.

State Councilor Dai Bingguo attended the meeting.