On the morning of November 2, 2009, Mr. Hearst, Director of the International Department of IG Metall, senior expert Mr. Klaus, and Mr. Sven Schwersensky, a representative from the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, visited China University of Labor Relations (CULR). Li Deqi, President of the CULR, and some teacher representatives had in-depth discussions with the visitors.

After reviewing the deep friendship and cooperation achievements between the CULR and the IG Metall, the two sides exchanged views on the proactive response strategies, policy adjustments, and practical experiences of the governments and trade union organizations of China and Germany in the face of the financial crisis. Both sides discussed and exchanged views on the common concerns and interests of Chinese trade union organizations regarding migrant workers in China and German trade union organizations regarding temporary workers, including employment environment, rights protection, minimum wage, collective bargaining, and labor legislation. They also discussed the challenges, measures to be taken, and achievements of the current trade unions.

Through this meeting, both sides gained a more concrete understanding of the policies and steps taken by the governments and trade union organizations of China and Germany in the context of the financial crisis and economic normalcy. Both sides believe that there is extensive space for exchange and cooperation on topics of mutual interest.

(Foreign Affairs Office)