Chinese State Councilor Shen Yiqin attended the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, on June 12, 2026, where she reaffirmed China's commitment to supporting the International Labour Organization (ILO) in upholding its founding mission and advancing social justice worldwide.
Speaking at the conference, Shen introduced the four global initiatives proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping and elaborated on China's position and propositions regarding the future of global labor and employment. Her remarks underscored China's active role in shaping international labor standards and promoting fair working conditions across nations.
Following the conference session, State Councilor Shen met with ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo to exchange views on deepening cooperation between China and the ILO. Houngbo expressed that the ILO highly values its partnership with China and expressed willingness to work together to make new contributions toward a better future for the world of work. The meeting highlighted China's growing engagement with multilateral organizations focused on labor rights and social justice.
Shen Yiqin also traveled to Bern, where she held talks with Guy Parmelin, President of the Swiss Confederation and Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries and to exploring further potential for practical cooperation in areas such as people's livelihood.
During the meeting with the Swiss president, both parties advocated for inclusive economic globalization and agreed to work together to promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. The discussions reflected the continued strengthening of China-Switzerland bilateral relations and mutual interest in expanding cooperative ties.
China has been increasingly active in international forums addressing labor and social issues. The country's participation in the International Labour Conference comes at a time when global employment patterns are undergoing significant transformation due to technological advancements, climate change, and shifting economic dynamics. China's engagement with the ILO underscores its recognition of the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing these global challenges.
The 114th session of the International Labour Conference brings together delegates from governments, employers, and workers from the ILO's 187 member states to discuss and set international labor standards, policies, and programs. China's participation in these discussions demonstrates its commitment to contributing to the development of a fair and inclusive global labor framework.
Shen Yiqin's visit to Switzerland also served as a platform for reinforcing bilateral economic ties between China and Switzerland, two nations that have maintained strong trade relations and cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussions explored new avenues for collaboration in livelihood-related areas that could benefit both countries' populations.
Overall, State Councilor Shen's attendance at the International Labour Conference and her bilateral meetings in Geneva and Bern highlight China's continued engagement with international institutions and its willingness to work with global partners on pressing labor and social issues affecting workers worldwide.
Sources: gov.cn/SCIO
