China’s state media Huanqiu (Global Times) recently published an article about Germany’s chancellor, Angela Merkel, commenting on her reelection. The article stated that she is pragmatic in dealing with China and that in China-German relations she can provide a positive model [for other E.U. countries].
The article quoted a German scholar who stated that Merkel’s reelection is good news for China. Merkel wants to have a strong Europe so that it will form a new "world Triangle" with China and the United States. She would remain relatively independent of the United States.
On September 23, 2013, Cui Jian, a scholar and researcher at the China Institute of International Studies, told the Global Times that Merkel’s victory is "relatively good news" for China. First, Merkel’s reelection is sure to make Chinese authorities more comfortable. This is because if Germany changed its leader, both China and Germany would need a re-adaptation process. Now that Merkel has been reelected, existing German policy toward China can continue. Second, during the first two terms [under Merkel], China and Germany started some large cooperative projects. Merkel’s reelection at least ensures that these projects will not change direction. Cui Jian said that Germany has a very strong ability to learn. During the U.S. economic crisis, Germany was aware of the need to take China seriously. In addition, Merkel’s reelection and her warm bilateral relations with China will provide a positive role model for Europe.
Source: Huanqiu, September 24, 2013
http://world.huanqiu.com/exclusive/2013-09/4385028.html