Asia boasts a dense network of economic, technological and strategic relations and exerts an influence on global developments in terms of growth, governance and innovation. As a result of changes in the international order, Asia is now playing a key role in the global economic and security architecture. The China Strategy 2021–24, which with this new strategy has been updated to include other Asian countries, contributes to a better understanding of the region in context.
In line with the whole-of-government approach, this strategy demonstrates the Federal Council's commitment to pursuing an active, coherent and independent foreign policy in Asia. It is based on a comprehensive consultation with stakeholders from business, research and civil society. The new Asia G20 Strategy forms part of Switzerland's Foreign Policy Strategy 2024–27 (FPS 24–27) and contributes to the diversification of Switzerland's partnerships in a changing geopolitical environment. The FPS 2024–27 highlights the geostrategic ties between Asia and Europe and the need for Switzerland to diversify its partnerships outside Europe.
Economic and political stability
The Asia G20 Strategy forms part of Switzerland's foreign economic policy strategy as well as its foreign policy. Promoting rules-based free trade, diversifying markets and strengthening economic multilateralism are important components of the strategy. Switzerland is the only European country to have negotiated a free trade agreement with all five Asian G20 member states. It is committed to creating the right conditions to facilitate access for its companies to markets in these countries. Switzerland works to promote political stability in the region with a view to fostering a prosperous and sustainable economy.
Global challenges
In response to the growing security challenges in Asia, Switzerland promotes constructive talks between parties and provides its good offices, for example by participating in the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission (NNSC) in Korea and platforms such as the Roundtable on Security Issues in Northeast Asia. The five Asian G20 members also play a key role in tackling global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution.
Multilateralism as a strategic instrument
Strengthening multilateralism, which is a thematic priority under the FPS 2024–27, is essential to addressing challenges in relation to trade, climate change and digitalisation. Alongside other international and regional bodies, the G20 provides a vital discussion platform and serves as a strategic instrument for addressing global economic and monetary challenges as well as challenges in areas such as climate, trade, research, innovation and health. Switzerland supports various channels for dialogue and information sharing, maintains official representations in the Asian countries, and participates in multilateral bodies. Switzerland's well-established structures can facilitate increased cooperation in these areas.
Internal and external coordination mechanisms
A new interdepartmental ‘Asia G20’ working group will be set up to facilitate implementation of this strategy. The working group will ensure that information is shared between the federal offices involved, coordinate approaches, and assist in implementing the objectives and measures laid down in the strategy. The Federal Council welcomes regular dialogue and further cooperation with a range of stakeholders outside the federal government. The Asia G20 Strategy therefore creates a common basis for adopting an effective, whole-of-Switzerland approach towards the Asian G20 member states.
Address for enquiries:
FDFA Communication Bundeshaus West 3003 Bern +41 58 460 55 55 kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
