Chinese Premier Li Qiang recently embarked on an official visit to Switzerland, highlighting the deepening bilateral relationship between the two nations. This visit marks a significant step towards fostering tighter collaborative ties that are expected to propel China and Switzerland to new heights in 2024 and beyond.
Aligning with this mission, Premier Li concurrently attended the annual World Economic Forum in Davos. There, he addressed urgent global concerns and emphasized China’s strategies for global economic recovery. His participation opened avenues for collaboration in advancing globalization and trade liberalization through a multilateral approach.
Switzerland, among the first Western nations to establish diplomatic ties with the Chinese mainland, also became the first European nation within the top 20 economies to negotiate a free trade agreement. The longstanding and cordial relations between China and Switzerland are built on mutual respect and solid cooperation.
On January 15, Premier Li met with Swiss President Viola Amherd aboard a special train from Zurich to Bern. During their discussions, both countries agreed to expand collaborations across various industries. In return for Switzerland providing easier access to visa procedures for Chinese nationals and businesses, they committed to expediting formal upgrade negotiations of the China-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement (FTA), completing a joint feasibility study on upgrading the FTA, and waiving visa requirements for Swiss nationals visiting China.
As China and Switzerland prepare to commemorate their 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025, both nations aim to further multilateralism by hosting several international organizations. This initiative is expected to enhance global cooperation and stability, reinforcing their commitment to a rules-based international order.
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Bolstering China-Switzerland ties through Premier Li Qiang's visit
cgtn.com
