United StatesOn July 17, 2026, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron held a joint press conference in Cologne, signaling growing alignment between their countries on addressing trade imbalances with China. Merz emphasized the need to tackle the widening EU-China trade deficit but stressed avoiding new conflicts with Beijing. Macron described China's trade practices as 'aggressive,' suggesting a more confrontational approach toward Beijing. The meeting reflects increasing European concerns over China's economic influence and trade policies.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue through the lens of European concern over China's trade practices, using stronger language ('aggressive') from Macron to highlight a more critical stance. While both leaders avoid direct confrontation, the emphasis on China's aggressive behavior suggests a left-leaning (
