Merkel Confronts China Ambitions in Clash Over Robot Maker Kuka
- German chancellor said involved in effort to halt takeover
- Chinese leaders host Merkel next week for trade talks
U.S. President Barack Obama, left, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel listen to robotic device maker Kuka CEO Till Reuter as they tour the Hannover Messe, the world's largest industrial technology trade fair, in Hannover, northern Germany, on April 25.
Photographer: Michael Sohn/AP PhotoThe German government is becoming more involved in efforts to thwart a Chinese bid for robot maker Kuka AG before Chancellor Angela Merkel’s trip to China next week.
Conflict is building up ahead of Merkel’s arrival in Beijing on Sunday for her ninth visit as chancellor, along with about 20 German company executives. This time may differ from the celebrations of trade ties in previous years as the relationship turns more competitive and Merkel faces growing domestic pressure to protect Kuka, which she views as a model company combining digital technology and Germany’s industrial strengths.