Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Switzerland’s newly appointed Federal President Pamlan on 1 January, welcoming the chance to deepen bilateral ties between Beijing and Bern. Xi highlighted recent progress on a joint study to upgrade the China–Switzerland free trade agreement and expressed readiness to work with Pamlan to expand cooperation in finance, technology and innovation.
China Switzerland relations
Xi recalled his 2017 state visit to Switzerland, when the two governments agreed to launch a joint study on upgrading their free trade agreement. He said negotiations on the upgrade have made constructive headway under President Pamlan’s leadership, noting that such progress illustrates the maturity of ties between the two nations.
Against a backdrop of rising unilateralism and protectionist measures worldwide, Xi said China and Switzerland share a common commitment to free trade. He described their partnership as a tangible example of high‑level bilateral development that contributes greater certainty and stability to global economic growth.
The message also drew attention to calendar milestones. 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of the China–Switzerland innovation strategic partnership, and it coincides with the opening year of China’s 15th Five‑Year Plan. Xi indicated that these factors create a favourable environment for expanding cooperation in research and development, clean technology, and industrial innovation.
Xi signalled personal attention to the relationship, expressing his willingness to work closely with President Pamlan to broaden mutually beneficial cooperation and to elevate bilateral ties to new levels for the benefit of both peoples. Areas for intensified collaboration cited in the communiqué include trade facilitation, technological exchange, and deeper institutional links to support innovation.
Analysts say an upgraded free trade agreement could remove additional barriers to investment and services while strengthening regulatory cooperation. For Switzerland, a hub of finance and precision manufacture, closer links with China offer access to Chinese markets and innovation networks. For China, enhanced ties with Switzerland can provide advanced technologies and a partner for high‑quality investment flows.
Both capitals have emphasised pragmatism. Swiss officials have welcomed dialogue that balances economic openness with regulatory safeguards, while Chinese statements have emphasised reciprocity and long‑term strategic cooperation. Observers note that smaller, targeted agreements within the broader framework can yield quick, tangible results for business and research communities.
As international trade tensions persist in some regions, the bilateral push for a strengthened FTA underscores a pragmatic approach to multilateral engagement. By advancing negotiatory steps and promoting innovation cooperation, Beijing and Bern aim to demonstrate the benefits of open economic exchange and joint scientific endeavour.
Looking ahead, officials on both sides are expected to pursue technical talks on the FTA upgrade and convene expert working groups on innovation projects during 2026. The anniversary of the innovation partnership offers a timely platform for launching new collaborative initiatives in areas such as green technology, pharmaceuticals and digital services.
Xi’s message to President Pamlan signals Beijing’s intention to keep China–Switzerland relations on a steady, forward path, reinforcing ties that combine diplomacy, commerce and science at a moment of shifting global economic dynamics.
Key Takeaways:
- Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Switzerland’s new Federal President Pamlan and pledged to expand bilateral cooperation.
- Xi noted progress on upgrading the China–Switzerland free trade agreement following a 2017 state visit.
- Both countries emphasise support for free trade amid rising unilateralism and protectionism.
- 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of the innovation strategic partnership and offers opportunities under China’s new Five‑Year plan.
