Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation
10/10/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/10/2025 10:34
Ignazio Cassis receives Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Bellinzona
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the FDFA, today welcomed the foreign minister of the People's Republic of China, Wang Yi, to Bellinzona for the fourth round of Switzerland and China's strategic dialogue. The meeting also coincided with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The head of the FDFA, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, received the foreign minister of the People's Republic of China, Wang Yi, at the Castelgrande in Bellinzona today. The meeting took place during the fourth round of the two countries' bilateral strategic dialogue.
A strategic dialogue consolidated by 75 years of diplomatic ties
The strategic dialogue is the highest level consultation mechanism between the Swiss and Chinese foreign ministries. It provides a regular and structured framework for both countries to address major bilateral and multilateral issues, bolster mutual understanding and explore new avenues for cooperation. The previous round of dialogue was held in Beijing on 7 February 2024.
The two foreign ministers' constructive and frank discussions led to a positive assessment of bilateral relations and a set of measures aimed at stepping up political, economic, scientific and cultural cooperation. The results of the meeting have been summarised in a joint document available online here: Link
Economic and trade cooperation
On the economic front, the two ministers underlined the importance of bilateral cooperation and welcomed the success of the Swiss-Chinese free trade agreement (FTA), in force since 2014. The FTA has helped bolster trade and diversify economic relations.
Both sides welcomed the progress that has been made in the ongoing negotiations to optimise the FTA, expressing their wish to see an updated and more ambitious version factoring in today's economic challenges as soon as possible. The optimised FTA should enhance the predictability and sustainability of trade, while supporting more open, inclusive and balanced globalisation.
Bilateral cooperation
Both ministers also agreed to vigorously pursue bilateral cooperation in active dialogues in various fields between the two countries, including bilateral financial cooperation and the dialogue on human rights as well as cooperation on environmental and climate protection, green and sustainable development, and AI.
Joint commitment to multilateralism
On the international stage, Switzerland and China reiterated their commitment to multilateralism and a global order based on international law. Both countries support a global system centred on the UN and intend to step up cooperation in multilateral forums, particularly at the World Trade Organization. Switzerland also welcomes the creation of the International Organization for Mediation, initiated by China, and intends to share its proven experience in providing good offices and international mediation.
The two ministers agreed to maintain a close dialogue and continue exchanges within the framework of their strategic partnership. The next round of strategic dialogue will be held in China.
Document Commun 4 E Ronde De Dialogue Strategique Suisse Chine 10102025
Address for enquiries:
FDFA Communication Bundeshaus West 3003 Bern +41 58 460 55 55 [email protected]
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