Interview: German official voices opposition to EU's punitive tariffs on Chinese EVs

MUNICH, Germany, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Hubert Aiwanger, deputy minister president of the German state of Bavaria, told Xinhua in a recent interview that his state is opposed to the European Union (EU) imposing punitive tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs).

"Instead, we hope for the continued export of Chinese cars to Europe," said Aiwanger, also Bavaria's minister of economic affairs, regional development, and energy.

"We believe in mutual support, not in creating barriers," he said.

Aiwanger commended China's economic development over the past 75 years, noting its transformation from a poverty-stricken country into one of the world's leading industrial powers.

He noted that China is Bavaria's most important trading partner, and there is still considerable potential for further cooperation, particularly in sectors such as hydrogen energy, artificial intelligence, and EVs.

Chinese people enjoy "an excellent reputation" in Bavaria, said Aiwanger. "We know you are hard-working, disciplined, and intelligent, and you have made remarkable progress in recent years and decades," he said.

He also announced plans for an upcoming delegation visit to China, aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and strengthening economic ties.

"I had the chance to witness China's progress firsthand during my visit in 2019. I'm eager to return and hope we can address important issues, including improvements in transportation, security, and economic policy," said Aiwanger.

He emphasized the importance of fair competition, saying that the key is to operate on equal terms without undermining each other. With a foundation of fairness, there is no reason why Germany and China cannot further strengthen their cooperation, he said.

"The exchange between our nations, especially in high-tech sectors like the automotive, artificial intelligence, mechatronics, and electronics sector, is already robust, and I'm confident that our collaboration will continue to foster innovation," he said.