China's top legislator Zhao Leji will undertake a strategic diplomatic tour across Kyrgyzstan, Hungary, and Switzerland from July 23-31, signaling Beijing's commitment to strengthening multilateral partnerships. As chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, Zhao's visit coincides with his participation in the Sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Switzerland – a platform shaping global governance dialogue.
The tour begins in Kyrgyzstan, where infrastructure development under the Belt and Road Initiative remains a key focus. Analysts suggest Zhao's meetings with Parliament Speaker Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu could advance regional connectivity projects critical for Central Asian trade corridors.
Hungary's inclusion highlights its growing role as China's bridgehead in the European Union. Zhao's discussions with National Assembly Speaker Laszlo Kover are expected to touch on green technology partnerships and supply chain resilience, building on Hungary's status as Central Europe's largest recipient of Chinese investment.
The Switzerland leg gains particular significance with Zhao addressing parliament leaders from over 140 countries and regions. His scheduled meetings with Swiss parliamentary leaders Maja Riniker and Andrea Caroni may explore financial cooperation frameworks, while the IPU summit provides a stage to articulate China's vision for inclusive global governance.
This diplomatic maneuver comes as China strengthens parliamentary diplomacy to complement state-to-state relations. Observers note the tour reinforces Beijing's engagement with both developing economies and European partners, balancing economic priorities with soft power outreach.
