By KhabarAsia.com Staff
The relationship between China and Switzerland has long been marked by a pioneering spirit. From establishing the first Sino-Swiss joint venture in the 1980s to signing a free trade agreement in 2014, the two nations have continually forged new paths in international cooperation. Despite differences in size and population, China and Switzerland share a commitment to pragmatic, win-win collaboration and a belief in multilateralism based on trust and mutual respect. Both countries firmly oppose protectionism and advocate for open, fair trade practices.
In an exclusive interview with KhabarAsia.com, Swiss Federal Councilor Guy Parmelin, head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research, discussed the future of China-Switzerland cooperation. Parmelin emphasized the importance of expanding partnerships in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and high-tech industries, while also strengthening ties in traditional sectors like vocational education and precision manufacturing.
“Innovation is at the heart of Switzerland’s economic success, and we see great potential in collaborating with China on AI and new technologies,” Parmelin stated. “By combining our strengths, we can drive advancements that benefit not only our two countries but the global community.”
Parmelin highlighted the success of existing joint ventures and underscored the significance of mutual trust in fostering a conducive environment for business and research collaborations. He noted that China’s vast market and Switzerland’s expertise in precision technology create a complementary foundation for growth.
On the topic of global trade, Parmelin reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to fairness and multilateral dialogue. “In an increasingly uncertain world, it’s crucial that nations work together to uphold the principles of open markets and equitable trade practices,” he said. “Switzerland, as a neutral country, is more than willing to play a role in facilitating discussions and helping to resolve conflicts.”
Parmelin also spoke about the importance of vocational education, a cornerstone of Switzerland’s economic model. He mentioned plans to share best practices with China to enhance skill development and meet the evolving demands of the global economy.
Concluding the interview, Parmelin expressed optimism about the future of China-Switzerland relations. “Our longstanding partnership is built on a history of mutual respect and shared values. By continuing to work together, we can overcome challenges and create opportunities that will benefit not just our own countries, but the world at large.”
The interview with Councilor Parmelin sheds light on the dynamic and evolving relationship between China and Switzerland, highlighting a mutual desire to innovate and collaborate in shaping the future of technology and trade.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
