Fourth term for Merkel reduces uncertainties

Christian Democratic Union CDU party leader and German Chancellor Angela Merkel reacts after winning the German general election (Bundestagswahl) in Berlin, Germany, September 24, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

With the world facing a lot of challenges and uncertainties, the re-election of Angela Merkel on Sunday will instill confidence and certainty in not just the European economy, but also global growth.

As the head of government for 12 consecutive years, Merkel has been a leading figure in guiding Germany, and Europe, through a turbulent period when one crisis has been followed by another, and while doing so, she has managed to ensure her country has been able to sustain its role as a locomotive of the global economy.

Although she has challenges to deal with at home, as shown by the rise in support for the AfD, her fourth term in office means a reassuring continuity in Germany's international policies, including its stance toward China.

Having visited China 10 times during her previous tenures, Merkel is well known for her cordial and close working relationships with Chinese leaders. So her re-election is being viewed as a boon for bilateral relations, as it is expected that she will seek to work with the Chinese leadership to inject new vitality into ties that are already in good shape.

The two sides have set a valuable example for ties between countries with different political and cultural backgrounds. Their strategic partnership was lifted to a comprehensive strategic one during President Xi Jinping's first state visit to Germany in 2014, and China became Germany's largest trading partner last year, while the latter has long been China's largest importer in Europe.

The world's second-and fourth-largest economies are also highly complementary and there is much potential still to be tapped. China's economic restructuring and booming market present many opportunities to German enterprises, while Germany's advanced facilities and managerial experience can help with China's ongoing industrial upgrading.

And as an astute and experienced political leader, it is expected that Merkel will oppose trade protectionism raising its ugly head in Germany and the rest of Europe, as well as the blocking of investments from China.

On the international front, China and Germany's resolve to expand their common interests will not only contribute in a favorable way to China-Europe relations, but also to global efforts to build a more just and balanced world, as both countries are staunch supporters of fairer globalization and international cooperation to address global challenges such as climate change.

As such, there is every reason for China and Germany to remain committed to ever deepening bilateral cooperation during Merkel's fourth term.