Xi Jinping and Parmelin Hold Beijing Talks on Trade Agreements

Beijing Talks Between Xi Jinping and Parmelin

Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Swiss Federal President Parmelin in Beijing on October 30, marking a high-level diplomatic engagement between the two nations, Xinhua News Agency reported. During the meeting at the Great Hall of the People, Xi noted that Switzerland has consistently remained a key European partner for China and has often taken the lead in fostering bilateral cooperation among European nations.

Xi emphasized that amid rising protectionism and unilateralism, free trade cooperation between China and Switzerland serves as a defining feature of their relationship. He stated that the two countries demonstrate political courage by upholding open cooperation and driving the construction of an open world economy.

Parmelin highlighted Switzerland’s historical position as one of the first Western nations to recognize the new China. He noted that the two countries are celebrating the 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership this year and pointed to the rapid, high-quality conclusion of free trade agreement upgrade negotiations as a testament to deep mutual trust.

Bilateral Trade and Emerging Technology Agreements

Following their discussions, the two leaders witnessed the signing of several cooperative documents. These agreements covered the upgrading of the China-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement, scientific research, labor employment, and media cooperation, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.

Xi outlined several areas for expanded economic and technical collaboration, calling on both nations to foster high-quality industrial and supply chains. Key target sectors for future innovation include:

* Digital economy
* Green energy reserves
* Artificial intelligence and emerging industries

Xi also expressed expectations for Switzerland to leverage its influence to promote the healthy development of China-Europe trade, ensuring a balanced and stable trajectory. Parmelin reiterated Switzerland’s firm adherence to the one-China policy and its commitment to strengthening trade, scientific research, and labor cooperation.

Multilateral Coordination and Global Governance

Beyond bilateral economics, the two leaders addressed multilateral diplomacy and international governance frameworks. Xi stated that China and Switzerland share similar stances on supporting multilateralism, calling for both nations to safeguard the international system centered on the United Nations and the international order based on international law.

Parmelin echoed these sentiments, affirming that Switzerland places high importance on China’s role in international affairs. He stated that Switzerland will continue to coordinate closely with China to uphold free trade, support multilateralism, and contribute to global peace, security, and economic prosperity.

Wang Yi participated in the official meeting and the subsequent document-signing ceremony.

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