Xi says to strive for greater development of China-Germany ties

Xi made the remarks in a signed article titled "To Make the World a Better Place" and published Tuesday on mainstream German media ahead of his trip to the European country, where he will also attend the upcoming summit of the Group of 20 major economies.

"An important task of my visit is to have in-depth discussions with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Chancellor Angela Merkel and other German leaders on how to seize the opportunities under the new circumstances to advance our comprehensive strategic partnership in a more coordinated manner with a view to elevating China-Germany relationship to a higher level," Xi wrote.

He proposed that China and Germany should strengthen top-level planning of bilateral relations and draft the blueprint of its future growth with a more open mind and a broader vision.

"We need to let our dialogue mechanisms at different levels play a leading role and enhance strategic communication on bilateral relations and major international and regional issues," Xi said.

China and Germany need to properly handle differences through equal-footed dialogue and friendly consultation, and "give each other understanding and support on issues concerning our respective core interests and major concerns," he added.

The Chinese president also proposed to enhance the strategic synergy between "Made in China 2025" and Germany's "Industry 4.0" with a pioneering, innovative, open and inclusive approach.

He said the two sides need to "foster an investment environment of two-way openness and fair competition, deepen practical cooperation in such fields as innovation, the Internet, smart manufacturing, finance, energy, environmental protection and green development, and expand cooperation in third markets."

The two countries also need to step up cooperation within the framework of the "Belt and Road" Initiative and jointly contribute to security, stability and prosperity of countries along the routes, he added.