Press release

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Berlin process on Libya: Switzerland to co-chair working group on international humanitarian law and human rights

23.06.2020 — Press release EDA
Switzerland has been given an important role in the search for a peaceful solution to the Libyan crisis. Within the framework of the Berlin process, it will co-chair the working group on respect for international humanitarian law and human rights alongside the Netherlands and the United Nations. The Berlin process was launched in January 2020 to achieve a permanent ceasefire in Libya. This new mandate for Switzerland is consistent with its peace policy activities in Libya and furthers the objectives of its Foreign Policy Strategy 2020–23 in regard to peace and security.

Switzerland extends its support to combat COVID-19 in the Middle East

23.06.2020 — Press release EDA
The situation in the Middle East is deteriorating as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. The pandemic is having a severe impact on the people of the region. In response to the growing needs, Switzerland is providing CHF 2 million in additional funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

Presentation of credentials

23.06.2020 — Press release EDA
Presentation of credentials ceremony of the new Ambassadors in Switzerland

More effective support for disabled people in humanitarian emergencies

19.06.2020 — Press release EDA
At its meeting on 19 June 2020, the Federal Council approved Switzerland's endorsement of the Charter on Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in Humanitarian Action. This is in line with Switzerland's humanitarian policy and reaffirms its efforts to facilitate access to relief aid for disabled people and to make provisions for their particular needs.

Switzerland organises relief flight to Venezuela

19.06.2020 — Press release EDA
An aircraft chartered by Switzerland carrying mainly medical supplies has reached Caracas. Nine different partner organisations brought the materials to Switzerland where they were unloaded and transported to Venezuela by the Humanitarian Aid Department of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). The aid has been sent in response to Venezuela's humanitarian crisis and to help them combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

Call for action: Switzerland supports education in emergencies

18.06.2020 — Press release EDA
Over 90 percent of schoolchildren and students have been unable to attend school due to COVID-19. This is a particular problem in developing countries and conflict regions, where schools, in addition to providing education, also offer a safe environment that fosters their physical and mental development. Switzerland is setting an example: Together with partner organizations, it is calling on the international community to strengthen education in emergencies.

Colombia: Swiss hostage is free

18.06.2020 — Press release EDA
A Swiss citizen, who had been in the hands of Colombian hostage-takers for almost three months, has been freed on Thursday 18 June 2020. The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) has taken note of this news with relief and thanks the Colombian authorities, in particular the Colombian armed forces, for their support.

Kreuzlingen: Ignazio Cassis stresses importance of open borders

17.06.2020 — Press release EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis met today in Kreuzlingen, on the Swiss side of Lake Constance, with Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, Liechtenstein's Foreign Minister Katrin Eggenberger, Deputy Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg Thomas Strobl and representatives of the International Lake Constance Conference Günther Eberle, Director of the State Government Office of Vorarlberg, and Walter Schönholzer, President of the Cantonal Council of Thurgau. The talks focused on the reopening of borders within Europe, cooperation during the coronavirus crisis and other European policy issues.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis meets Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio in Ticino

16.06.2020 — Press release EDA
Following the reopening of borders within Europe, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis has met the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Luigi Di Maio in Ticino. Together with his Italian counterpart, the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) highlighted the good cooperation between Switzerland and Italy in managing the COVID-19 pandemic, and expressed solidarity and encouragement to the people living on either side of the Italian-Swiss border.

Switzerland regrets sanctions against International Criminal Court

12.06.2020 — Press release EDA
Switzerland regrets the more severe measures that the USA decided on 11 June 2020 against the International Criminal Court (ICC). It reaffirms its support for the ICC as an independent institution that prosecutes the most serious crimes and thereby contributes to lasting peace and international stability.

Peace and stability: Federal Council seeking legal framework with the European Union (EU) for cooperation in civilian peacebuilding

12.06.2020 — Press release EDA
Switzerland has a great interest in security and stability in all regions of the world. To this end, the Federal Council is seeking a new legal and administrative framework for the future deployments of Swiss specialists to EU civilian missions. At its meeting on 12 June 2020 he approved the objectives and guidelines for the negotiating mandate subject to the consultation of the foreign affairs committees of the National Council and the Council of States.

UN Charter turns 75: Ignazio Cassis highlights role of multilateralism in addressing global crises

10.06.2020 — Press release EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis took part today in a virtual panel discussion of the Forum of Small States together with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and other high-ranking officials. The debate focused on the challenges facing the United Nations 75 years after its creation. The current COVID-19 pandemic clearly demonstrates the importance of multilateralism in overcoming global crises.

Media (2625)

Ensuring international peace and security: climate and security (virtual) (fr)

23.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Bern, 23.02.2021 – Address by the Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis on the occasion of the UN Security Council - Check against delivery

UN Security Council: Statement by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis on climate and security

23.02.2021 — Press release EDA
During an open debate of the UN Security Council, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis expresses Switzerland's views on the impact of climate change on peace and international security. During a high-level debate, the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) outlines Switzerland's contribution to conflict prevention and why cross-sectoral cooperation is crucial in the fight against climate change.

Ignazio Cassis launches first 'Emna Rumantscha' with Canton of Graubünden

18.02.2021 — Press release EDA
'Rumantsch: in ferm toc Svizra' (Romansh: an essential part of Switzerland). This is the motto under which the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) is launching the first ever Romansh language week in Switzerland and abroad. On 19 February, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis – in collaboration with the Canton of Graubünden and Radiotelevisiun Svizra Rumantscha (RTR) – is inviting people to an online launch event dedicated to Switzerland's fourth national language. Together with the representations abroad, the FDFA wants to promote greater knowledge of the Romansh language and culture, which is a key component of Switzerland's national cohesion.

New Swiss ambassadors

17.02.2021 — Press release EDA
A number of personnel changes have been announced for several Swiss representations abroad and at the head office of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) in Bern for 2020/2021. These changes are part of the usual transfer rotation and are based on appointments made by the Federal Council. The appointment of heads of mission abroad becomes effective following approval by the respective host state.

Ignazio Cassis concludes his African tour in Senegal and The Gambia

13.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Following his visit to Algeria and Mali, the head of the FDFA, Ignazio Cassis, travelled to Senegal on 11 February 2021 for a two-day visit. In Dakar he met Senegalese President Macky Sall and Foreign Minister Aissata Tall Sall. At the centre of discussions were the priorities of Switzerland's new Sub-Saharan Africa Strategy 2021–24 and Swiss engagement in Senegal regarding vocational education and training and digitalisation. Mr Cassis then travelled to The Gambia, where various official meetings and visits were on the programme.

Appointment of the Swiss delegation to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe

12.02.2021 — Press release EDA
On 22 January 2021, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis appointed the 12 members of the Swiss delegation to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe (hereafter the Congress) for the period 2021–26. The candidatures were proposed by the Conference of Cantonal Governments, the Swiss Union of Cities and the Association of Swiss Communes. Following formal validation by the Congress Bureau on 12 February 2021, the new delegation can now begin its work in preparation for the renewal session from 23 to 25 March.

Official visit to Mali: Ignazio Cassis calls for transition to lasting peace

11.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis travelled to Mali on 9 February 2021 for a two-day official visit. In Bamako, he met with President Bah N'Daw and Foreign Minister Zeyni Moulaye. Their discussions focused on the transition period leading to the formation of a new government and on efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region. Switzerland's commitment to international cooperation in Mali was also a central topic. The topics discussed are priorities of the first Swiss strategy for the region, the Sub-Saharan Africa Strategy 2021–24, which was recently adopted by the Federal Council. Also on the agenda were visits to several Swiss-supported projects.

Ignazio Cassis in Algeria: political meetings and economic exchange

09.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis began his Africa trip with an official visit to Algeria from 7 to 9 February 2021. He was received by Prime Minister Abdelaziz Djerad and Foreign Minister Sabri Boukadoum in Algiers. Talks centred on diversifying bilateral relations, regional security, and management of the COVID-19 pandemic. During his visit, the head of the FDFA also met with members of the new Swiss-Algerian Chamber of Commerce.

Drought in Madagascar: Switzerland to provide 1 million Swiss francs

09.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Switzerland has announced the allocation one million Swiss francs to support humanitarian activities in Madagascar. It is responding to the country's authorities' appeal for international aid.

Libyan peace process: Switzerland welcomes appointment of new unified transitional authority

05.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Between 1 and 5 February Switzerland hosted the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, culminating in the appointment of a unified executive authority tasked with preparing the national elections set for 24 December 2021. Switzerland hosted the forum as part of its commitment to supporting the UN-backed Libyan peace process and to fulfil the peace and security objectives set out in its Foreign Policy Strategy 2020–23.

Ignazio Cassis to visit North and West Africa

04.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will pay an official visit to North and West Africa from 7 to 13 February. The trip will take him to Algeria, Mali, Senegal and The Gambia. Talks will focus on the priorities of the new strategies for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and sub-Saharan Africa in 2021–24. Key issues to be covered include the promotion of dialogue, economic development, and cooperation in relation to digitalisation. The public health crisis surrounding Covid-19 will also be discussed.

Federal Council adopts dispatch on UN Global Compact for Migration

03.02.2021 — Press release EDA
At its meeting on 3 February 2021, the Federal Council adopted the dispatch on the UN Global Compact for Migration ('Global Compact'). The dispatch reiterates the view, adopted by the Federal Council in autumn 2018, that Parliament's assent to the Global Compact is in Switzerland's interests. The objectives set out in the Global Compact are consistent with the priorities set out in Switzerland's migration policy. Assenting to the Global Compact would not require any action on domestic policy or create any new financial commitments or responsibilities. The dispatch provides the basis for Parliament to scrutinise the Global Compact, which was adopted by UN member states in 2018.

Other news (297)

FDFA notes resignation of UNRWA Commissioner-General

06.11.2019 — EDA
The United Nations (UN) has announced the resignation of the Commissioner-General for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Pierre Krähenbühl. The announcement follows the launch of an investigation into misconduct allegations involving UNRWA's management. The FDFA notes the resignation and calls for a full and thorough clarification of the facts. Switzerland will withhold payment of its project contributions pending the outcome of the investigation.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis receives the Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization

05.11.2019 — EDA
Switzerland ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) precisely 20 years ago. To mark the occasion, Federal Councillor and Head of the FDFA Ignazio Cassis met with the Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), Lassina Zerbo, in Bern. During the meeting, Mr Cassis emphasised the CTBT’s indispensable role in building a world without nuclear weapons. The CTBTO works closely with scientific institutions, including the Swiss Seismological Service at ETH Zurich in Davos, to monitor compliance with the ban. These monitoring activities are also an example of how science and diplomacy can work together to solve political problems.

Swiss expert Marcel Jullier re-elected to UN Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions

01.11.2019 — EDA
The UN General Assembly has re-elected Swiss expert Marcel Jullier for a second three-year term on the UN Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions. Mr Jullier is a specialist in accounting and controlling. His re-election also advances Switzerland's efforts for adequate Swiss representation in international organisations.

Switzerland commits to the French language as a diplomatic instrument and supports reforms by the new Secretary General of La Francophonie

31.10.2019 — EDA
FDFA Head Ignazio Cassis attended the 36th Francophonie Ministerial Conference in Monaco on 30 and 31 October. As the International Organisation of La Francophonie (IOF) prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year in Tunis, the foreign ministers of its member states and governments have decided to refocus the organisation on its main missions, in particular its values (peace, the rule of law and democracy) and the promotion and defence of the French language.

Ignazio Cassis attends Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie in Monaco

29.10.2019 — EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will attend the annual Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie in Monaco on 30 and 31 October. This will be an opportunity to review the work of the International Organisation of La Francophonie as it prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Celebrating 25 years of the World Conference on Women in Beijing: Switzerland is strongly committed to equal pay and combating domestic violence

28.10.2019 — EDA
On 29 and 30 October 2019, Geneva will be transformed into a platform for an international exchange on gender equality and women's rights as the host of the European preparatory conference for the global review of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. The two-day event is taking place within the framework of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). Switzerland will play a key role, with both a Swiss delegation participating in the debates and State Secretary Pascale Baeriswyl co-chairing the conference.

Zunft zu Rebleuten 2019 (de)

26.10.2019 — EDA
Riehen, 26.10.2019 - Speech by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis - Check against delivery

Ignazio Cassis meets China's Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi in Bern to discuss bilateral cooperation, human rights and multilateralism

22.10.2019 — EDA
Federal Councillor and head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Ignazio Cassis met China's Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi on 22 October 2019, as the two countries gear up to celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations. The meeting provided an opportunity to explore issues of current interest to both countries. The meeting builds on the strategic dialogue established between Switzerland and China in 2017 and follows on from Mr Cassis visit to Beijing in April 2018.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis receives UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen to discuss a political solution to the Syrian conflict

21.10.2019 — EDA
Federal Councillor and head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Ignazio Cassis has met with the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, in Bern to discuss the situation in Syria and possible ways of finding a political solution. They conferred about the most recent escalation of the conflict in north-eastern Syria and the upcoming first meeting of the Syrian Constitutional Committee in Geneva by the end of the month. Switzerland provides humanitarian support for the people of Syria and neighbouring countries.

Federal Council calls for immediate end to hostilities and facilitates provision of humanitarian aid in Syria

16.10.2019 — EDA
The Federal Council condemns Turkey's military intervention in Syria, which it considers to be in violation of the UN Charter and therefore contrary to international law. It calls on Turkey to immediately cease all hostilities and to work through negotiation towards immediate de-escalation and a political solution to the conflict. Switzerland has stated this position to Turkey several times in recent days. At the same time, the Federal Council decided at its meeting of 16 October 2019 to aid the establishment of business relations necessary for the work of the humanitarian actors active in Syria. The amended ordinance on measures against Syria will enter into force on 15 November 2019.

Switzerland steps up efforts to fight AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis – Ignazio Cassis announces extra 7 million

10.10.2019 — EDA
Every year, 2.5 million people die of AIDS, malaria or tuberculosis, mainly in low- and middle-income countries. At a pledging conference hosted in Lyon on Thursday in the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis announced a CHF 7 million increase in Switzerland's contribution to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The Geneva-based Global Fund is a priority multilateral partner for Switzerland's international cooperation.

Syrian-Turkish border – Switzerland calls on all parties to refrain from hostilities

09.10.2019 — EDA
Switzerland is following recent developments on the Syrian-Turkish border in north-eastern Syria with concern. It calls on all parties to refrain from hostilities and to respect international law, in particular international humanitarian law.

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