This year marks a significant milestone as Switzerland and the Chinese mainland celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations. What began with a telegram on January 17, 1950, has evolved into a close and mutually beneficial partnership.
Max Petitpierre, then President of the Swiss Confederation, took the initiative by sending a telegram to Chinese leader Mao Zedong, expressing Switzerland's willingness to establish diplomatic relations.
The foundations of this relationship were laid much earlier, with the first official contact in 1906 and a treaty of friendship signed in 1918. In January 1950, Switzerland was among the first Western countries to recognize the People's Republic of China, setting the stage for decades of collaboration.
A Milestone in Diplomacy
Jean-Jaques de Dardel, who served as the Swiss Ambassador to the Chinese mainland from 2014 to 2019, reflected on the significance of the 1950 decision. \"The decision was taken because we acknowledged the new China and its government. What happened then was a milestone,\" he stated.
Since 1979, bilateral relations have rapidly expanded, particularly following the launch of the Chinese mainland's reform and opening-up policy. In 2007, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed to enhance high-level political consultations and strengthen cooperation across various sectors.
The Chinese embassy in Bern has been a pivotal presence since 1950. Mao Jun, currently heading the embassy, highlighted the remarkable achievements in Sino-Swiss relations. \"Political mutual trust has continued to deepen, and under the guidance of head-of-state diplomacy, the Chinese mainland and Switzerland have established an innovative strategic partnership. It is the only one marked by innovation among the strategic partnerships established between the Chinese mainland and other countries,\" Mao Jun said in an exclusive interview with CGTN Europe.
As both nations celebrate this enduring relationship, the focus remains on equality, respect, and continued cooperation to address global challenges and foster sustainable growth.
Reference(s):
China and Switzerland mark 75 years of ties, hail equality and respect
cgtn.com
