As China gears up for its annual Two Sessions, a platform shaping the nation’s future policies, Swiss Ambassador to China Jürg Burri has highlighted the enduring and dynamic relationship between the Chinese mainland and Switzerland. Speaking at the Ambassador Forum hosted by the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University of China, Ambassador Burri reflected on the 75 years of diplomatic ties and looked ahead to future collaborations.
A Rich History of Cooperation
Dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, the relationship between the Chinese mainland and Switzerland began with early trade exchanges. In 1950, Switzerland became one of the first European nations to recognize the newly founded People’s Republic of China, establishing formal diplomatic relations. Since then, both countries have fostered stable political ties, marked by frequent high-level visits and vibrant cultural exchanges.
Economic Partnership and Innovation
Economic cooperation has been a cornerstone of Sino-Swiss relations. The 1975 trade agreement laid the foundation for collaboration, which was further strengthened by the 2014 Free Trade Agreement. Over the past decade, trade has surged by 70%, making China Switzerland’s third-largest trading partner. Switzerland serves as a key hub for technology transfer, and its reputation for innovation has been bolstered by its “innovation triangle” of education, vocational training, and research.
Mutual Growth and Learning
More than 1,000 Swiss companies operate in China, spanning sectors like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, watchmaking, and precision instruments. These enterprises have thrived in the Chinese market, contributing to local innovation and development. Meanwhile, Chinese companies are expanding their presence in Switzerland, with firms such as Huawei and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China investing in R&D and logistics. Switzerland acts as a gateway for Chinese enterprises entering European markets.
Adapting to ‘China Speed’
Ambassador Burri emphasized how Swiss businesses are learning from China’s rapid pace of innovation, often referred to as “China speed.” The digital revolution in China is reshaping global business practices, with the world increasingly adapting to China’s swift advancements in technology, customer service, and marketing.
Looking Ahead: A Partnership for the Future
As 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, both nations are set to celebrate with a Cultural and Tourism Year, enhancing people-to-people interactions. Ambassador Burri expressed optimism about future cooperation under the China-Switzerland Innovative Strategic Partnership, highlighting areas like biopharmaceuticals, intellectual property, enterprise security, and participation in the Belt and Road Initiative.
He also discussed the growing acceptance of Chinese new energy vehicles (NEVs) in Switzerland and Europe. Burri noted that the Swiss market poses no barriers to Chinese automakers, offering free trade without customs or institutional obstacles.
Embracing Cooperation and Innovation
The enduring partnership between the Chinese mainland and Switzerland serves as a model of international cooperation. With shared commitments to innovation and open economic policies, both nations are poised to continue their collaborative journey, setting an example for global relations in the 21st century.
