Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Swiss Federal Councilor and Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis in Berne on Tuesday for the second strategic dialogue of the Sino-Swiss diplomatic relations.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi shakes hands with Swiss Federal Councilor and Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis for the second China-Switzerland Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue in Berne, Switzerland, October 22, 2019. (Photo: Chinese Foreign Ministry) 

The two foreign ministers applauded the strengthening of diplomatic and economic relations between their countries.

The two countries will mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relationship in 2020, and both sides should take the chance to strengthen non-governmental exchange, Wang said.

Speaking at a press conference after the dialogue, Wang noted China's intention to expand bilateral cooperation in finance, investment, and technology, while continuing to strengthen mutual political trust.

Wang commended on the bilateral relationship, saying it has developed soundly based on equality, mutual respect, and win-win cooperation.

Wang pointed out that China has sped up the openness of its banking, securities, and insurance sectors, and last year Chinese securities regulator gave approval for USB Group to hold the majority stake in its securities joint venture, making it the first foreign bank to take control.

Wang stressed that China would protect intellectual property rights and act in accordance with market rules.

Wang also called on efforts to defend multilateralism and open and free trade.

Responding to a reporter's question on U.S. criticisms, Wang said China's always adhered to multilateralism and win-win cooperation and will continue to open its market and create a fair and transparent investment environment.

China does not bully other countries, nor interfere in their domestic affairs, he said. Instead, the country adapts and becomes part of the globalization and efforts on sustainable development, he added.

Some politicians alleged China sets up "debt traps" and accused it of violating human rights and breaking the rule of law, but these attacks and abuses are totally groundless, Wang said.

On his side, Cassis said Switzerland highly values the Belt and Road Initiative and intends to explore more high-quality projects under the framework. Switzerland wants to work with China in upholding the UN-centered international order and international system, he said.

After meeting with Cassis, Wang also met President of the Swiss Confederation Ueli Maurer to discuss bilateral ties.