The tone of the German chancellor’s recent article in Foreign Affairs is on the dovish side — more positive than negative about China-Germany relations. It clearly shows a desire to improve the relationship. However, no one has the final say in a German government rife with conflicts. Only time will tell.

The confrontational US attempt to strike China through technological decoupling can only reinforce the notion among Chinese that their country will have to rely on itself in the long term. Chancellor Merkel’s rhetoric was more constructive.

Changes in Germany’s political landscape manifested in the election results despite Angela Merkel’s fourth term win. These changes will alter the course of the country’s future.