Federal Ministry of Research Advises Caution in Cooperations with China

In light of recent suspicions of espionage activities, Federal Minister of Education and Research Bettina Stark-Watzinger advises German universities to carefully examine any scientific cooperation with Chinese partners. The imprisonment of three German citizens, including a couple from Düsseldorf and another person from Bad Homburg, underscores the need for a vigilant approach to the Far Eastern giant. Stark-Watzinger, a member of the FDP, emphasized in an interview with "Wirtschaftswoche" that a balance between risks and benefits in collaboration with China, particularly in the scientific field, must be critically assessed. This includes a review of current cooperations. The suspects were arrested for allegedly procuring sensitive information regarding military technology, which could potentially contribute to strengthening China's maritime warfare capabilities. The minister pointed out that financial support is exclusively granted to projects that provide immediate added value to Germany and Europe, such as in the area of climate change mitigation. In Germany, the freedom of science is highly valued but also comes with corresponding responsibility for universities and research institutes. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research plans to intensify the sharing of information and awareness among educational and research institutions, in cooperation with the relevant authorities, and to vehemently promote the development of independent expertise in dealing with China.