China announces unilateral visa-free access for Switzerland

BEIJING – In a bid to boost trade and streamline visa procedures, China has announced its intention to unilaterally grant visa-free treatment to Switzerland on Monday.

China and Switzerland accelerated talks to upgrade their existing free trade arrangement and streamline visa procedures, as reported by Chinese state media.

Both countries agreed to promptly initiate formal negotiations to enhance the free trade agreement established in 2013.

Additionally, China committed to granting visa-free entry to Swiss citizens. These agreements marked significant progress during the first high-level meeting between the two nations since the onset of COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a statement from the Swiss government, discussions between the two nations encompassed a broad spectrum of bilateral relations, delving into approximately 30 issues and addressing various international affairs.

The primary focus, however, centered on trade and economic relations, with China holding a pivotal role as Switzerland’s leading trading partner in Asia since 2010 and ranking as its third most significant global trading partner, following the European Union and the United States.

Moreover, a joint declaration was signed, following a comprehensive study on enhancing their existing free trade agreement. The Swiss government hailed this as a crucial step towards potential negotiations.

According to a statement from the Swiss authorities, discussions also covered the potential inclusion of Switzerland on the list of countries whose residents enjoy visa-free entry to China for stays up to 15 days. In a reciprocal move, Switzerland has also agreed to increase visa facilitation for Chinese citizens and enterprises investing in the country.

The introduction of visa-free access and the potential improvement of the free trade agreement signifies a significant advancement in bilateral relations. This move is anticipated to boost tourism and business exchanges, fostering deeper interconnectedness between the two global economies.

Switzerland, renowned for its Alpine beauty, features iconic places like the Matterhorn, Lake Geneva, and charming cities like Zurich and Geneva. With a population of around 8.7 million, Switzerland is globally recognized for its precision industries, banking, and picturesque landscapes.

On the other hand, China is the world’s most populous country, boasts iconic places such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and vibrant cities like Beijing and Shanghai. With a population of over 1.4 billion, China’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and economic prowess define its global significance.