ZILLAR BARTA DESK, BEIJING, CHINA : Chinese President Xi Jinping met with President of the Swiss Confederation Guy Parmelin at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Friday, marking an important moment in diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland. The high-level meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties, expanding economic cooperation, promoting scientific and technological partnerships, and addressing key developments in the international arena.
The meeting comes at a significant time for both countries, as 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Switzerland Innovative Strategic Partnership. The two nations have maintained diplomatic relations since 1950 and have steadily expanded cooperation across trade, finance, education, research, technology and environmental protection.
One of the major highlights of President Parmelin's visit is the upgraded China-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement. Both countries have welcomed the outcome of negotiations, which were concluded in August 2026.
The updated agreement is expected to provide Swiss businesses with improved access to the Chinese market, strengthen trade relations and create additional opportunities for companies operating in both countries. Under the revised arrangement, 99.8 per cent of Swiss exports are expected to receive duty-free access to China, representing a substantial expansion compared with the previous agreement.
President Parmelin described the agreement as an important achievement, noting that the negotiations had addressed the practical expectations of Swiss companies and other stakeholders. He also expressed confidence that the enhanced trade framework would create new opportunities for businesses and strengthen economic relations between the two countries.
President Xi Jinping welcomed the agreement, describing it as an example of political courage and responsibility in supporting openness and international economic cooperation. He also indicated that stronger cooperation between China and Switzerland could contribute to greater stability and predictability in the global economy.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for the two leaders to review the progress of their long-standing diplomatic partnership. China and Switzerland have developed cooperation in several important sectors, including manufacturing, financial services, scientific research, innovation, education and healthcare.
Switzerland was among the first Western countries to recognise the People's Republic of China in 1950. The two countries subsequently developed a close economic relationship, with Switzerland becoming the first continental European country to sign a free trade agreement with China in 2014.
The establishment of the Innovative Strategic Partnership in 2016 further strengthened the relationship, providing a framework for expanding cooperation in emerging technologies, sustainable development and international economic affairs.
Apart from bilateral economic relations, the leaders were also expected to exchange views on major international and regional developments, including global security, international trade and the changing geopolitical environment.
At a time when international trade faces increasing uncertainty and economic protectionism, China and Switzerland have expressed support for maintaining open markets and strengthening mutually beneficial economic partnerships.
Switzerland's position as an important European financial and industrial centre makes its relationship with China significant for businesses seeking access to international markets. Meanwhile, China views Switzerland as an important European partner for economic, scientific and technological cooperation.
President Guy Parmelin's visit to China is scheduled to continue from October 30 to November 1, 2026. During the visit, he is also expected to hold discussions with other senior Chinese government officials, including representatives responsible for trade, social affairs, education and science.
A Swiss business and scientific delegation is accompanying the president, underlining the importance attached to commercial, industrial and research cooperation.
The programme also includes meetings with business representatives and the opening of the 10th Swiss-Chinese Economic Forum, providing an additional platform for strengthening commercial relations.
The meeting between Xi Jinping and Guy Parmelin at the Great Hall of the People therefore represents an important step in the continuing development of China-Switzerland relations. With the upgraded free trade agreement and renewed focus on scientific, economic and diplomatic cooperation, both countries are seeking to build a more comprehensive partnership amid an increasingly complex international economic environment.
