Kick-off event to mark 75 years of Sino-Swiss diplomatic ties in the Swiss Chalet

Press releases, 17.01.2025

The Embassy of Switzerland in China hosted a grand reception today (17 January) in the presence of Li Jian, Director-General of the Department of European Affairs of China’s Foreign Ministry, Jürg Burri, Swiss Ambassador to China, and 100 distinguished guests at the Swiss Chalet in Beijing, kicking off the year of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and the People’s Republic of China.

Swiss Ambassador to China Jürg Burri and Director-General of the Department of European Affairs of China’s Foreign Ministry Li Jian at the reception on January 17.
Swiss Ambassador to China Jürg Burri and Director-General of the Department of European Affairs of China’s Foreign Ministry Li Jian at the reception on January 17. © Embassy

The journey of the diplomatic ties between Switzerland and the People's Republic of China began on January 17, 1950, when President of the Swiss Confederation Max Petitpierre sent a telegram to Chairman Mao Zedong, officially recognising the People's Republic of China. The historic recognition paved the way for the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries on September 14 of the same year.

The reception was held in the charming ambiance of the Swiss Chalet at Houhai lake, a recently opened Swiss Alpine style pop-up bar and iconic project of the Swiss Embassy. The Swiss Embassy presented a photo exhibition highlighting key milestones of the diplomatic relations between Switzerland and China. A musical performance by Swiss duo Noti Wümié topped off the evening.

The 75 years of bilateral relations show a true pioneering spirit. After Switzerland was among the first western nations to recognize the People’s Republic of China in 1950, Swiss elevator maker Schindler established China’s first industrial Sino-foreign joint venture in 1980. The Sino-Swiss comprehensive bilateral Free Trade Agreement signed in 2013 was China’s first FTA with a continental European country.

After China became Switzerland’s main economic partner in Asia and its third largest trading partner globally in 2010, the two countries established an Innovative Strategic Partnership in 2016 with over 30 dialogues in various fields. Switzerland is a popular destination for Chinese tourists and an attractive country to invest in for Chinese companies.

Today’s event is the first in a series of activities throughout the year to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Sino-Swiss diplomatic relations. For more information about the relationship between Switzerland and China, please visit Bilateral relations Switzerland–China.