Switzerland Wins Favor with U.S. After Hosting Flawless Trade Talks with China
Switzerland is suddenly in Washington’s good books and possibly at the front of the line for a new U.S. trade deal.
This shift comes after the Alpine nation successfully hosted high-stakes U.S.-China trade talks over the weekend in Geneva. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent praised Switzerland’s role, calling the diplomatic effort “flawless,” and hinting that a stronger trade relationship between the two nations may be just around the corner.
Before the talks began, Swiss officials held private meetings on Friday with Bessent and his team, as well as with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, to address their own trade concerns particularly recent U.S. tariffs.
From Tariff Trouble to Trade Opportunity
Back in April, Switzerland was hit with 31% U.S. tariffs, significantly higher than the 20% imposed on the European Union and 10% on the UK. The steep tariffs shocked Swiss leaders and led several major Swiss companies to promise increased investment in the U.S. in hopes of mending ties.
It seems that move may be paying off.
“The UK and Switzerland have moved to the front of the queue for trade deals,” said Bessent at a press conference in Geneva. “The EU, however, has been much slower.”
In contrast, the EU is playing hardball, signaling it won’t accept a one-sided deal and has already suggested possible countermeasures.
The UK, meanwhile, recently signed a limited but swift agreement with President Trump’s administration.
Swiss Charm Worked Wonders
Switzerland’s strength has always been neutrality, and this time, it used it to its full advantage. Analysts say the country went the extra mile to make sure the weekend talks between the U.S. and China ran smoothly from choosing a scenic, private residence overlooking Lake Geneva to offering croissants to journalists waiting outside.
Much of the discussion between U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and the Chinese delegation happened in the serene gardens of an 18th-century villa, which Greer praised for setting the right tone.
“Everything went off flawlessly,” said Greer. “The atmosphere provided by the Swiss government really helped us reach the conclusions we did this weekend.”
Even China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng complimented Switzerland’s “warm hospitality,” appreciating the country’s hosting efforts.
What’s Next?
Switzerland’s diplomatic finesse could now lead to tangible economic rewards, especially if the U.S. prioritizes a bilateral deal. With both Switzerland and the UK moving ahead, the EU may have to decide whether to hold its ground or follow suit.
One thing’s clear: in global diplomacy, how you host matters as much as what you say and Switzerland just proved it.
Reference
Switzerland Wins Favor with U.S. After Hosting Flawless Trade Talks with China