China and Switzerland have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation under an upgraded strategic partnership framework. The development follows the fourth round of China–Switzerland Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue, held in Bellinzona, Switzerland, where Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis.
The joint document released after the talks highlighted a broad consensus on expanding collaboration in trade, climate protection, finance, and artificial intelligence. Both nations also agreed to enhance people-to-people exchanges in education, culture, and tourism, marking 75 years of diplomatic relations and preparing to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their innovative strategic partnership next year.
The two sides lauded the success of the China–Switzerland Free Trade Agreement, effective since 2014, emphasising its role in boosting economic ties. They also committed to advancing negotiations for an FTA upgrade to further promote open, balanced, and inclusive globalisation.
Switzerland expressed support for China’s Global Governance Initiative and welcomed Beijing’s proposal to establish the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed). Both countries reiterated their support for the UN-centred international system and pledged cooperation within multilateral institutions, including the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
The document concluded with an agreement to maintain close high-level communication and continue alternating rounds of the China–Switzerland Strategic Dialogue, with the next meeting to be hosted in China.
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