President Xi Jinping Meets with Swiss President Guy Parmelin in Beijing
President Xi Jinping met with Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on the afternoon of October 30, fmprc.gov.cn reported. The meeting centered on bilateral trade cooperation, multilateralism, and the 10th anniversary of the Switzerland-China innovative strategic partnership.
President Xi stated that Switzerland stands as an important European partner for China, noting that bilateral cooperation remains among the best in Europe despite global protectionism. He emphasized that free trade cooperation anchors the relationship, demonstrating political courage and offering a leading model for an open world economy.
Trade Agreement Upgrades and Bilateral Cooperation
President Parmelin highlighted Switzerland’s historical role as one of the first Western nations to recognize the People’s Republic of China, establishing a lasting partnership marked by mutual respect and high-level exchanges. The two nations concluded talks on upgrading their free trade agreement to a high standard in a short timeframe, reflecting deep mutual trust.
President Xi Jinping and President of the Swiss Confederation Guy Parmelin @ParmelinG attended a cooperation document signing ceremony in Beijing on Friday.#XiJinping #XiGuests #ChinaSwitzerland pic.twitter.com/yfMIALRX7Q
The leaders witnessed the signing of multiple cooperation documents following their meeting. These agreements cover the Protocol Enhancing the Free Trade Agreement between China and Switzerland, alongside pacts concerning labor and employment, scientific research, and media.
Strategic Alignment on Innovation and Multilateralism
President Xi called for enhanced collaboration in emerging sectors, including the digital economy, green energy storage, and artificial intelligence, while urging both countries to build high-quality supply chains and direct AI toward positive outcomes for humanity. President Parmelin reiterated Switzerland’s commitment to the one-China policy and expressed readiness to strengthen multilateral coordination, uphold free trade, and support global stability alongside China.
Wang Yi attended the meeting in Beijing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific agreements were signed during the meeting?
The two presidents witnessed the signing of the Protocol Enhancing the Free Trade Agreement between China and Switzerland, alongside supplementary cooperation documents addressing labor and employment, scientific research, and media.
What milestone did the bilateral relationship mark during this visit?
The visit coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Switzerland-China innovative strategic partnership, a milestone noted by President Parmelin during discussions at the Great Hall of the People.
Who else was present at the meeting in Beijing?
Wang Yi was present at the meeting between President Xi Jinping and President Guy Parmelin.
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