China seek long-term, stable ties with Switzerland

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang has met with Swiss President Doris Leuthard in Bern. Li said China attaches great importance to its ties with Switzerland, and is ready to seek a long-term and stable path to develop bilateral ties.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang(4th L) attends the joint press conference  with President of the Swiss Confederation Doris Leuthard(4th R) in Bern, capital of Switzerland, on Jan. 26, 2010. Li Keqiang arrived in Zurich on  Monday, kicking off his formal visit to Switzerland.(Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Li Keqiang said the two countries should stick to the principle of sincerity, mutual trust and friendly consultation, and seek common ground while reserving differences. He called for cooperation in new energy, environmental protection and food safety.

The Vice premier added that both sides should speed up work on studying the possibility on a free trade area.

Leuthard, said Switzerland opposes any form of trade protectionism. She said she expects more Chinese companies to invest in the country, and enhance cooperation in technology and finance. She hoped both sides will open a new chapter of bilateral economic ties.