German leader’s China visit latest sign of foreign diplomacy pivot beyond Beijing
Dignitaries increasingly choosing China’s regional hubs to forge direct trade, technology and investment ties with local firms
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has begun his state visit to China in the eastern province of Anhui, spotlighting a growing trend among visiting foreign leaders to look well beyond Beijing.
When foreign dignitaries bypass Beijing for provincial hubs, it is a deliberate diplomatic move, with itineraries carefully curated to project a commitment to deeper ties. Regional stops offer a direct window into China’s industrial landscape while opening doors for cooperation in trade, hi-tech manufacturing, tourism and clean energy.
