(Switzerland) Roman Severin Zeller

China’s initiative is moving forward. The Swiss executive, Bundesrat Maurer, recently visited the Chinese government. What will be the next steps?

 

In 2014, the Swiss and Chinese government signed and ratified a free trade agreement. It was a sign to intensify each other’s commitment for a deeper relationship on diplomatic grounds, a huge step for their cooperation. While China’s economy is growing rapidly and their influence in the west moreover increases, the Belt & Road initiative is one of the country’s key to success.

 

On the other hand, there is Switzerland, a neutral and sovereign country. Its success relies on well a balanced approach in foreign politics and independent relationships with organizations and countries. The visit of Bundesrat Maurer, hence, was said to be a too strong support for a too expansive Chinese approach. In Swiss politics, the executives have been criticized for its open support to the Chinese initiative.

 

Meanwhile, Bundesrat Maurer visited President Trump in the White House in Washington. For the first time, Switzerland is optimistic when it comes to a free trade agreement with the US.

 

The question remains, how the Swiss government will overcome the trade war between the two world economies China and the US. Moreover, it is unsure how the Swiss will be taking advantage of the Chinese Belt & Road initiative, or even more basic, will there even be any opportunities and how can they be addressed.

 

Roman Severin Zeller, Switzerland

Editor in national politics of Die Weltwoche

(Switzerland’s leading weekly newspaper)