On May 23, 2003, Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan met with Micheline Calmy-Ray, Swiss Federal Councilor and head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs at Diaoyutai.

Tang said China was satisfied with Sino-Swiss exchanges and cooperation in all areas in recent years. China valued relations with Switzerland and was willing to keep developing mutual understanding and promoting bilateral relations through joint efforts. China appreciated the sympathy and support of the Swiss government and people in China's fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).

Calmy-Ray said Switzerland appreciated and supported the Chinese government's efforts to fight SARS and believed China would eventually overcome the disease. Switzerland valued good relations with China and was willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation in bilateral relations and international affairs.

The two sides also exchanged views on international issues of common concern.