Why are many western leaders visiting China? | Inside Story

After spending decades criticising China, a succession of leaders from Western countries have been lining up to engage with its leadership. In recent months, many of them have visited Beijing, seeking business opportunities. German chancellor Friedrich Merz is the latest to land in China. Merz says Beijing must not be overlooked when tackling the big global challenges. Donald Trump's huge tariffs are said to have pushed western countries closer to China. But can China be an alternative? And what does it have to offer? Presenter: James Bays Guests: Jost Wubbeke - Managing Partner at Sinolytics and a Global expert on China's industrial policy, rare earths & supply chain strategy. Harry Broadman - Former Assistant to the US trade representative. Dan Wang - Economist and Director on Eurasia Group's China team. Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AJEnglish Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/ Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/ Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.io/AJEMobile #China #XiJinping #FriedrichMerz #Germany #Beijing #EUChinaRelations #USEuropeTensions #GlobalPowerShift #DonaldTrump #TrumpTariffs #TradeWar #Politics #AlJazeeraEnglish