This year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Germany. In the intervening years, the two countries and, indeed, the whole world have experienced tremendous changes, from the end of the Cold War and multipolarization of the world to globalization and the information technology boom. Once a divided country, Germany today is the leading European power. And China, once a poor and backward country, has become the world's second-largest economy and a responsible global power.

All these reflect profound changes in the international situation.

Sino-German relations have withstood the test of these changes. Despite some ups and downs, bilateral relations have strengthened, bringing tangible benefits to both sides as well as to the rest of the world. Sino-German ties can thus be described as a veritable all-round strategic partnership of mutual benefit.