The House of Switzerland, a meeting hub that showcases Swiss culture, sports, entertainment and cuisine, has opened in Beijing.

Run by Presence Switzerland – a federal agency that promotes the country abroad – it is one of the few national houses that is open to the public during the Olympic Games.

The 4,000 square metre facility, situated just outside the city centre in an artistic district, is the largest ever set up by Switzerland.

Lucerne and the Lake Lucerne region are the main tourism partners, and support has also been given by the Swiss embassy in China. Business partners are also represented.

Ambassador Dante Martinelli said he was delighted to open the House on August 1 – Swiss national day.

"With exactly one week to go to the opening of the Games we are entering the spirit of the Olympics in style," he said.

"The House of Switzerland will play host to the beauty that Switzerland has to offer as well as the diverse culture of the country and its very strong and innovative entrepreneurship."

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