„Even if Biden wins — as most Germans are praying — there is no reason to expect Germany’s position on China will change, given the economic realities at stake. And even though Biden’s foreign policy advisers, most of whom served in the Obama administration, are known to admire Merkel, she isn’t going to be around for much longer. The chancellor has said she will step down at the end of her current term next fall.
The only candidate in the running to replace her who is likely to deviate from her course on foreign policy — Röttgen — is considered a dark horse.
Another question hanging over the relationship longer term is what happens after Biden is gone, especially if he’s replaced by a Republican. Germany’s political establishment has effectively allied itself with the Democratic party. That fact won’t be lost on the Republicans whenever they return to power.
What also worries strategists in Berlin is that Germany has made virtually no preparations for what to do if Trump surprises everyone and manages to get reelected.”
