China and Switzerland Discuss Deepening Practical Science and Innovation Cooperation

China News Service reported that Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Yin Hejun met in Beijing with Guy Parmelin, President of the Swiss Confederation and head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research. The officials exchanged views on deepening the innovative strategic partnership between China and Switzerland and promoting practical cooperation in scientific and technological innovation. Yin Hejun noted that 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the bilateral innovative strategic partnership, offering broad opportunities for collaboration. He highlighted that on October 30, witnessed by both heads of state, the two nations signed an agreement on cross-border management of scientific data in joint research and development activities, providing vital support for researchers. Parmelin affirmed that China is an important partner and stated that Switzerland attaches great importance to bilateral science and innovation cooperation. He expressed readiness to organize the 10th meeting of the Joint Committee on Science and Technology Cooperation and deepen practical collaboration in joint research and development, cross-border data management, and exchanges among young scientists. Senior representatives from both sides attended the Beijing talks, including Chinese Vice Minister of Science and Technology Zhang Guangjun, Chinese Ambassador to Switzerland Qian Minjian, and delegates from Peking University. Swiss participants included State Secretary Martina Hirayama, Swiss Ambassador to China Jurg Burri, and representatives from the Swiss National Science Foundation and the University of Zurich.

The newly signed bilateral agreement on cross-border scientific data management provides formal support for researchers from both nations seeking deeper practical collaboration across joint research and development initiatives.