Chinese Premier Li Qiang engages in candid exchanges with President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd in a relaxing and friendly atmosphere on a special train from Zurich to Bern, the capital of Switzerland, Jan. 14, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

China will open its door wider and wider to the outside world, welcoming more Swiss companies to invest in the country, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said on Sunday.

Li made the remarks on a special train from Zurich to Bern, the capital of Switzerland, during which he engaged in a candid exchange with President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Li noted that Swiss enterprises have deeply participated in China's reform and opening-up process in the past 40-odd years, contributing to the economic and social development of China while achieving substantial benefits for themselves.

Switzerland not only boasts beautiful natural landscapes but also has good ecological environment, leading innovation capability and high-quality "Made in Switzerland" products, he said.

At present, China is advancing the Chinese modernization in an all-round way with high-quality development, Li noted, adding that China is ready to enhance exchanges and mutual learning and understanding with Switzerland.

Amherd welcomed Li at the start of his official visit to Switzerland, adding  that many Swiss companies have achieved good performance in their investment and development in China and are willing to further deepen their presence in the Chinese market.

The two sides also exchanged views on scientific research and technological innovation, green development, cultural tourism, winter sports, among others, and agreed to promote cooperation in those fields.