Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi addressed concerns regarding rare earth element exports during his visit to Europe, particularly in Berlin. Wang emphasized that rare earths, critical for high-tech manufacturing, have never been and should not become a source of tension between China and Europe. He stated that China can meet European and German demand for rare earths provided that export applications follow established regulations. Wang highlighted that controls over dual-use substances are standard sovereign practices observed by China, Germany, and Europe, and China’s Commerce Ministry has established a "fast lane" process to facilitate European requests. During his visit, Wang Yi participated in the eighth round of China-Germany diplomatic and security strategic dialogue with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Both sides expressed commitment to strengthening comprehensive strategic partnerships amid global challenges such as protectionism and unilateralism. Wang also engaged in high-level meetings with French officials, including President Emmanuel Macron, underscoring the importance of deepening China-EU relations on the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties. Wang called for objective and rational mutual understanding and cooperation to address global uncertainties and foster multilateralism. Analysts view Wang's European trip as laying a foundation for enhanced future exchanges and high-level interactions between China and Europe.