Yin Yicui, chairwoman of the Standing Committee of the Shanghai People’s Congress, the city’s legislative body, met a Swiss National Council delegation, headed by President Isabelle Moret, in Shanghai yesterday.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland, and “we have witnessed frequent high-level visits and great progress in cooperation in all aspects”, Yin said.

Shanghai is accelerating the construction of the “five centers” of international economy, finance, trade, shipping, and scientific innovation. Shanghai’s development is inseparable from technological innovation and the leadership of high-end industries. The biomedical industry is a key sector in Shanghai’s future development, Yin added.

As a local authority, the Shanghai People’s Congress will use its advantages to promote mutual understanding, and strengthen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, she noted.

Moret said that China and Switzerland have close relations and both nations pay much attention to scientific innovation and have maintained close cooperation in the economic and cultural fields.

Switzerland appreciates the Chinese government’s attitude towards disease prevention, and “we hope to continue our friendship and strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in the future”, she added.