In a high-level meeting between China and Switzerland, the two countries have agreed to accelerate negotiations to enhance their existing free trade agreement and simplify visa procedures for travel. The current free trade agreement between China and Switzerland has been in place since 2013 and is set for an upgrade, with formal negotiations to expand it commencing soon.
One notable development is China’s decision to offer visa-free entry to Swiss citizens, a move aimed at facilitating travel and fostering closer ties between the two nations. These agreements were reached during the meeting, marking the first such high-level engagement between the two countries since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Chinese delegation was led by Premier Li Qiang, who was warmly received by Swiss President and Defence Minister Viola Amherd upon his arrival at Zurich airport. The talks also saw the participation of Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin, Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, the governor of the People’s Bank of China, and high-ranking officials from various ministries, including Deputy Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu.
The discussions between the two sides were characterized by a comprehensive exchange of views on approximately 30 bilateral issues, as well as deliberations on several international matters of current importance, according to a statement issued by the Swiss government.
Furthermore, both countries considered the planned resumption of dialogue between their foreign ministries later this year. The dialogue will encompass a range of topics, including development cooperation and human rights.
China has been Switzerland’s most significant trading partner in Asia since 2010 and ranks as its third most important global trading partner, following the European Union and the United States. As part of the recent talks, the two nations signed a joint declaration to explore opportunities for advancing their free trade agreement, a move seen as a crucial step toward initiating potential negotiations.
Looking ahead, additional strategic discussions between China and Switzerland are on the horizon. These discussions are set to address financial and energy matters, educational policy dialogue, and consultations concerning UN Security Council affairs before the end of the year.
The Swiss government also revealed that the talks covered the possibility of including Switzerland on the list of countries whose residents would enjoy visa-free entry to China for stays of up to 15 days. China, in turn, has committed to applying a unilateral visa-free policy to Switzerland. The Swiss government intends to streamline visa facilitation for Chinese citizens and enterprises investing in Switzerland, fostering stronger bilateral relations in the process.
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