June 19, 2019 - Germany seeks 'level playing field' in ChinaThe German economy minister has described China as a partner and competitor. He said it is time to establish better trade rules that don't put European companies at a disadvantage.
Thus proving conclusively that Germans do indeed understand the concept of "fair trade" and they want fair trade with countries like China.
So how much introspection would it take for them to want fair trade with the United States too?
If this article is to be believed, Germany sees itself as aligned with the Chinese against a common economic foe, the United States:
https://www.dw.com/en/trade-worries-put-extra-burden-on-germany-china-talks/a-44586972
“Donald Trump’s trade war threats likely dominated Angela Merkel’s meeting with the Chinese premier. But could rallying around a common economic foe push concerns over human rights and business practices to the side?”