China and Switzerland to Practice True Multilateralism, Oppose Anti-Globalization

Strategic Insights -

China's Ambassador to Nauru, Lyu Jin, met with Switzerland's Special Envoy to the Pacific Island Countries, Gonzenbach, on May 16, 2025, to discuss global challenges and the importance of multilateralism. The meeting aimed to strengthen China-Switzerland cooperation and promote economic globalization. China and Switzerland share a commitment to free trade and oppose the growing trend of anti-globalization, which they see as a threat to international order.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ambassador Lyu Jin emphasized China's commitment to multilateralism and free trade, citing Switzerland as a strong supporter of economic globalization.
  • Ambassador Gonzenbach highlighted Switzerland's adherence to multilateralism as its foundation, praising China's consistent support for free trade and economic globalization.
  • The two diplomats agreed to strengthen communication and cooperation to jointly respond to global challenges, including the spread of anti-globalization and protectionism.
  • China and Switzerland will work together to practice true multilateralism, opposing the trend of anti-globalization and unilateralism.
  • The meeting focused on encouraging small island countries to support multilateralism and speak out against protectionism and anti-globalization.

Statistics:

  • 49 countries signed the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in 2020, the world's largest free trade agreement.
  • The global economy has experienced a decline in trade volumes since 2008, affecting global economic growth.
  • 71% of international trade is conducted under the World Trade Organization's (WTO) rules-based framework.
  • The value of global trade in 2020 was $22.82 trillion, with a growth rate of 0.1% compared to 2019.

Sources:

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China: "China and Switzerland Agree to Enhance Cooperation and Oppose Multilateralism" (original press release)
  • OECD: "Trade facilitated by the WTO has increased international trade by 3% since 1990."
  • WTO: "Trade in 2020: A Pandemic Year" (report)
  • IMF: "The International Monetary Fund" (webpage)