In the middle of the CCP virus pandemic, countries around the world are reviewing their relationships with China. This time, we take a look at Switzerland.
This rich alpine country has always been close to China.
After the communist regime seized control in mainland China, Switzerland is one of the first Western nations to recognize its rule. It cut ties with Taiwan three days later.
Maintaining a friendship with the communist regime can be a fine line to walk, however. In 1999, a diplomatic incident showed just how fragile the relationship can be.
Switzerland has one of the largest Tibetan communities in Europe. In 1999, when then Chinese leader Jiang Zemin visited the Swiss Parliament, protestors nearby held up “Free Tibet” banners and booed Jiang.
Swiss police protected the Chinese delegation, but did not silence the demonstrators. Jiang was shocked at the sight of protesters and furious with his hosts.
In his speech, Jiang told Swiss lawmakers, “Switzerland has lost a friend.”