Various signs indicate that Germany has made an international joke.
The incident, which has been widely discussed and sensationalized as the “Chinese warship laser targeting a German aircraft” in the Red Sea, is under scrutiny.
According to German media reports, around July 2nd, during a routine reconnaissance flight involving a German aircraft part of the EU’s “Shield” operation, it was observed that the aircraft was being targeted by a Chinese warship using laser technology.
As per German statements, the use of lasers is considered a “military threat” at least.
Interestingly, German media also mentioned that this German aircraft was not part of the German military but chartered for the “Shield” operation, stationed in Djibouti, an East African country, operated by civil aviation pilots who could carry up to four German soldiers.
A spokesperson for the German Ministry of Defense further clarified that after being targeted by the laser, the aircraft immediately ceased its mission and “safely returned to the base in Djibouti,” with all personnel unharmed and now back in action.
This led to Germany’s outrage.
Waldfuhr expressed his “great displeasure” over the interference on German aircraft, finding it “unacceptable.” The German Foreign Ministry summoned the Chinese Ambassador, clearly stating their position and demanding an explanation from China.
The European Union also joined the fray, condemning the alleged Chinese warship’s actions as “dangerous and unacceptable,” and summoned the Chinese Ambassador to the EU.
However, looking at the news, the Germans seem quite upset, while the Chinese appear somewhat puzzled.
On July 10th, the Ministry of National Defense responded to questions from Chinese media, stating:
The claims made by Germany are completely inconsistent with the facts.
At that time, a Chinese naval fleet was conducting a convoy escort mission in the Gulf of Aden area, not engaging in activities in the Red Sea or using laser equipment.
1. Germany claimed that a German aircraft encountered interference in the Red Sea.
China stated that its naval fleet was in the Gulf of Aden, not in the Red Sea.
Germany claimed that German aircraft were targeted by lasers.
China denied that their ships had activated laser equipment.
At least one party chose to lie.
China has the confidence to categorically clarify this, suggesting that Germany might have made a major international gaffe.
However, from the reports by German media, there are some details worth pondering for Germany.
Germany mentioned that German aircraft were close to Chinese warships.
We presume that both sides are telling the truth, it’s just Chinese warships.
In the Red Sea, the “Houthi armed forces” do not have warships. If you know it’s Chinese warships, why would you approach so closely? And multiple times?
If the other side is retaliated against, isn’t that also a normal defensive measure?
Moreover, the location doesn’t match.
China said that Chinese warship formations were in the Gulf of Aden, not in the Red Sea.
Either Germany lied or we should be more polite and assume the Germans got the location wrong, or they deliberately changed it to the Red Sea for sensationalism.
If they didn’t get it wrong, then why did they “survey” the Gulf of Aden when they were supposedly conducting air “reconnaissance” in the Red Sea?
Also, if this ship is not Chinese, but rather a foreign or American warship, then what about the laser shooting?
China said there was none, absolutely none.
Germany claimed there was, which we cannot accept.
But as a Chinese person, I am definitely convinced of China’s statement. Don’t forget, German aircraft are not military planes; they shouldn’t all be military personnel.
Such temporary workers eagerly approach for reconnaissance, then heavily publicize their injuries (supposedly earning subsidies), and then the German government reacts with fury.
Without understanding the facts clearly, how can one be angry?
Of course, not only Germany, but also the European Union has made a fool of itself.
Germany hasn’t figured out the matter, but the European Union jumps in at the first opportunity.
Of course, this isn’t limited to the military field alone.
On July 10th, a meeting with the Ministry of Commerce was held, where there were inquiries:
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, recently made an address criticizing issues such as market access in China, subsidies, government procurement, export controls, and overcapacity. What is the Ministry of Commerce’s comment on these matters?
He Yongqian’s response was lengthy.
Regarding subsidies, the EU has adopted double standards, demanding others to be strict while neglecting its own regulations.
Throughout history, the EU has been a major player in subsidies, with its support for aircraft and agriculture being ruled by the World Trade Organization as illegal. In recent years, the EU has not only failed to correct its mistakes but has also intensified its subsidy efforts. According to incomplete statistics, between 2021 and 2030, the EU plans to provide more than 1.44 trillion euros in various subsidies. Member states have provided even more subsidies, reaching several hundred billion euros.
Regarding export controls, China has repeatedly emphasized that its export controls are prudent and moderate, and the items subject to export controls far exceed those of the EU.
China’s export control measures related to rare earth materials are lawful and in compliance with regulations. We have established a “green channel” specifically for European companies to expedite approvals. The EU, however, has not appreciated China’s efforts but has instead criticized it harshly. Even more troubling is the EU’s procrastination and cumbersome procedures in high-tech export control approvals, severely affecting the stability of China-EU supply chains.
Finally, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Commerce stated:
The EU should view the economic and trade relations between the two sides without emotions or biases, focusing less on blame and more on communication, less on protection and more on openness, less on anxiety and more on action, and always seek consensus before labeling.
This is indeed “heartfelt advice!”
Therefore, regarding the so-called laser incident, the Ministry of National Defense Information Bureau said:
We hope that Germany respects objective facts, strengthens communication and coordination with China, and maintains the overall situation of Sino-German relations and military cooperation.
This is indeed “sincere concern!”
Under the current international situation, there are no fundamental contradictions between China and Germany, or China and Europe. It is entirely possible to engage in more communication, coordination, and cooperation.
This requires us to remove our biased glasses and not always be overly critical. China does not owe Europe anything! Europeans should stop playing games and believe that such rumors about China invading Europe will never come true!
It’s fortunate for China that it is. What would happen if it were the United States? How would the United States react? How would Europe react?
Amicable relations lead to wealth; one should not impose their own dislikes on others.
It is important to clarify the truth and delegate professional tasks to professionals, otherwise, we risk making international gaffes.