Swiss Ambassador to China Jürg Burri gives his opening remarks at the official reception of Switzerland as the BJIFF Country of Honor in Beijing, on April 19, 2025. Photo: Dong Feng/GT

As part of the activities to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between Switzerland and China, the Embassy of Switzerland in China launched a series of programs as the guest Country of Honor during the 15th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF). A panel discussion titled "the Future of Film - A Dialogue between China and Switzerland" was held at the Tsinghua University Art Museum on April 23. 

Forward Future section jury member Cyril Schäublin, who is also a Swiss director, explored ideas of introducing artificial intelligence (AI) to the film sector; and from his point of view, AI cannot completely replace humans in filmmaking. "I think this era is a very interesting one," said Schäublin. 

Focusing on the future development of the film and educational reform, the panel included outstanding scholars, directors, and curators in the film, art and education sectors  of China and Switzerland. Experts explored where the future of film art will lead through the intersection of technological waves and culture.

In the same week, the Swiss Embassy in China hosted a press conference on April 19, where the Swiss Ambassador to China Jürg Burri announced that Switzerland is proud to be the Country of Honor at the 15th BJIFF from April 18 to 26, a highlight of this jubilee year and of the China-Switzerland Year of Culture and Tourism.

Deputy Secretary-General of the BJIFF Organizing Committee Bian Jian warmly welcomed the Swiss film delegation to actively participate in BJIFF events and engage in in-depth exchanges and collaborative discussions with Chinese industry peers.