China, Switzerland agree to begin feasibility study on free trade zone

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 01-28-2009 14:14

China and Switzerland have decided to launch a joint feasibility study on creating a bilateral free trade zone in the second half of this year. The decision was made during talks between visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and President of the Swiss Confederation, Hans-Rudolf Merz. More detail>>

President of the Swiss Confederation Hans-Rudolf Merz (R)  meets with visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Bern Jan. 27, 2009.(Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

The two countries have also agreed to take measures to jointly tackle the challenges brought about by the international financial crisis. Among the joint initiatives are boosting financial cooperation, expanding trade and investment and opposing trade protectionism.

After the talks, China and Switzerland signed an agreement on promoting and protecting investments. Switzerland has become the 11th largest trading partner for China in Europe. It is also the sixth largest source of investment from Europe, for China.