Press releases

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The FDFA appeals to all the conflicting parties in Sri Lanka to end the hostilities immediately and to respect international humanitarian law

21.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) is deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Sri Lanka. The disregard for humanitarian standards shown by combatants in the north of the country has resulted in many victims and seriously endangered the lives of tens of thousands of civilians caught in the cross-fire. The FDFA again urgently calls on all the conflicting parties to respect international humanitarian law and to end the hostilities.

Date for freezing of Mobutu assets expires

21.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) has taken note of the decision by the state prosecutor (SP) not to pursue the complaint submitted in January 2009 concerning the assets of former president Mobutu. The Confederation has been trying since 1997 to find a solution to this case. The freezing of assets was due to expire on 30 April 2009. To prevent the repetition of such cases in future, in December 2008 the Federal Council mandated the FDFA to draft a law making it possible to confiscate and to restitute the illicit assets of politically exposed persons.

Visit to Bern by the President of the European Court of Human Rights

21.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
Today, Federal Councillors Micheline Calmy-Rey and Eveline Widmer Schlumpf have received the President of the European Court of Human Rights, Jean-Paul Costa, in Bern for talks.

Durban Review Conference on racism: adoption by consensus of the final declaration

21.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
Switzerland was part of the consensus which today adopted the final document of the Durban Review Conference, which corresponds to the objectives set by the Federal Council. Switzerland rejects with the greatest firmness certain remarks made by the President of Iran in the framework of this conference.

Recall of the Israeli ambassador in Switzerland

20.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
The FDFA has received confirmation of the recall of the Israeli ambassador to Switzerland. The FDFA deplores the excessive remarks made in this context by various Israeli representatives.

Visit by Federal Councillor Micheline Calmy-Rey to West Africa

13.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
Federal Councillor Micheline Calmy-Rey, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), is to make an official visit to West Africa on 15-18 April. The visit will take her to Nigeria, Mali and Burkina Faso.

Official working visit by the Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs Markos Kyprianou

09.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus, Markos Kyprianou, has made an official working visit to Bern today for talks with his counterpart, Federal Councillor Micheline Calmy-Rey.

Earthquake in Italy: Switzerland offered assistance

06.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
Switzerland has offered to provide immediate aid to the victims of a violent earthquake which struck the Abruzzo region in central Italy early this morning.

Switzerland takes part in the second Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations

03.04.2009 — Press releases EDA
Switzerland will take part in the second Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations, which will be held in Istanbul from 6-7 April 2009. For Switzerland, this decision is an expression of its commitment to promote the peaceful coexistence of different cultures and religions. The Swiss delegation will be led by Federal Councillor Micheline Calmy-Rey.

Humanitarian appeal

01.04.2009 — Press releases EDA

Switzerland participates in the Hague Conference on Afghanistan

31.03.2009 — Press releases EDA
By its civil activity on behalf of the Afghani population and institutions, Switzerland is participating in the efforts of the international community in Afghanistan. Martin Dahinden Director of the SDC confirmed this commitment by Switzerland during the conference held in the Hague today 31 March 2009 at the joint invitation of Afghanistan, the Netherlands and the UN.

Annual Conference 2009 of the Humanitarian Aid and the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit SHA

27.03.2009 — Press releases EDA
On the occasion of the 2009 edition of the Annual Conference, dedicated to the theme of “Save lives – alleviate suffering”, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and members of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit SHA presented a global survey of the situations requiring their intervention. In essence, their mission is to provide relief to those suffering in the wake of natural disasters and armed conflict.

Media (3304)

Flooding in Armenia: Switzerland deploys specialists from the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit

04.06.2024 — Press releases EDA
Heavy rain has caused flooding in northern Armenia, leading to considerable loss of life and destruction of property. Water and mud levels reached almost two metres in some areas and destroyed a large number of homes and infrastructure. At the request of the Armenian authorities, Switzerland is deploying specialists from the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit to the affected areas. In particular, they will be responsible for assessing the structural soundness of bridges and other infrastructure. Switzerland has earmarked up to CHF 500,000 to support efforts on the ground.

Ignazio Cassis receives Niger's foreign minister in Bern

27.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
On 27 May 2024, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis received Bakary Yaou Sangaré, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigeriens Abroad of the Republic of Niger, in Bern. The official working visit took place within the context of the long-standing relations of friendship and cooperation between Switzerland and Niger. The talks focused on the prospects for normalisation in Niger and the challenges facing the region.

Switzerland supports future of Syria and neighbouring countries with CHF 60 million

27.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
The Syrian population is still suffering from the consequences of the ongoing conflict that began in 2011, and these are also being felt in neighbouring countries. Switzerland reaffirmed its commitment by pledging CHF 60 million at the 8th Brussels Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region on 27 May 2024.

Protection for humanitarian personnel: UN Security Council adopts Swiss resolution

24.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
On 24 May 2024, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution for the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel in conflict zones. The resolution, which was negotiated and submitted by Switzerland to the Security Council for a vote, highlights the country's long-standing commitment to the protection of civilians – a priority of the Federal Council for Switzerland's 2023–24 term on the council.

FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel holds political consultations with Türkiye

23.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel met with Türkiye's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mehmet Kemal Bozay in Ankara on 22 May 2024. The talks focused on bilateral relations, human rights, regional developments, European integration and the war against Ukraine.

Switzerland steps up efforts to combat rural poverty worldwide

22.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
At its meeting on 22 May 2024, the Federal Council decided to support the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) with a total amount of CHF 49.5 million between 2025 and 2027. IFAD's overarching goal is to drive forward the fight against poverty and hunger in rural areas. The Federal Council's decision continues Switzerland's support for IFAD, which has been ongoing since 1978.

Flexible approaches in an unstable world: Federal Council adopts Switzerland's International Cooperation Strategy 2025–28

22.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
At its meeting on 22 May 2024, the Federal Council adopted the Dispatch on the International Cooperation Strategy 2025–28 (IC Strategy 2025–28). The dispatch outlines the objectives and priorities of Switzerland's international cooperation for the next four years and proposes them to Parliament for approval. The IC Strategy 2025–28 provides for a budget of CHF 11.27 billion over four years. In light of an ever-changing world, the strategy pursues long-term objectives – combating poverty and promoting sustainable development – while maintaining a high degree of flexibility to respond to the many current crises.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis to travel to Hungary and the Western Balkans

21.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
On Wednesday, 22 May, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will travel to Budapest to meet with his Hungarian counterpart Péter Szijjártó and Minister for European Union Affairs Janos Bóka. He will also pay a courtesy visit to President Tamás Sulyok. Hungary will hold the presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2024. Following his visit to Hungary, Mr Cassis will travel to Montenegro on 23 May at the invitation of Foreign Minister Filip Ivanovic, before meeting Serbian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Siniša Mali in Belgrade on Friday, 24 May.The meetings will focus on Switzerland's bilateral relations with the three countries, European policy and the European security situation.

UN Security Council: harnessing the potential of science for peace and security

17.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
Switzerland organised a meeting of the UN Security Council on 17 May 2024 to strengthen collaboration between the scientific community and the council. Incorporating science into the council's decision-making process can foster mutual trust and help prevent conflicts, promoting sustainable peace – a key priority for the Federal Council during Switzerland's Security Council membership in 2023–24.

Private security services provided abroad in 2023: eighth FDFA report on PSSA implementation

15.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
At its meeting on 15 May 2024, the Federal Council took note of the eighth annual report on the implementation of the Federal Act on Private Security Services Provided Abroad (PSSA). The Act requires companies intending to offer private security services abroad from Switzerland to declare the services to the competent authority in advance. In 2023, the FDFA received 95 declarations from companies. No activities were prohibited.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis to attend Council of Europe ministerial meeting in Strasbourg

13.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
The head of the FDFA, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, will attend the 133rd session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg on 16 and 17 May 2024, which will be held under the presidency of the Principality of Liechtenstein. The discussions will focus on the war against Ukraine and the adoption of a framework convention on artificial intelligence. Mr Cassis will also take part in the ceremony marking the council's 75th anniversary.

The Federal Council intends to release CHF 10 million for emergency aid in Gaza

08.05.2024 — Press releases EDA
At its meeting on 8 May 2024, the Federal Council decided to make a contribution of CHF 10 million to the humanitarian aid appeal of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The CHF 10 million contribution is exclusively earmarked for Gaza and will be used to provide the urgent assistance specified in the UNRWA Flash Appeal for the occupied Palestinian territory covering the period April–December 2024. In its overall assessment, the Federal Council drew on the analysis of the Colonna report and coordination with other donors. The Federal Council will submit this decision to the foreign affairs committees of the National Council and Council of States for consultation.

Other news (300)

SwissInTouch, Switzerland in your pocket

24.11.2022 — Article EDA
Approximately 780,000 Swiss citizens abroad currently benefit from the wide range of services provided by a global network of representations offering advice and support. The FDFA Helpline is also on hand to answer queries 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Now there's a new app that makes staying in touch even easier: SwissInTouch keeps Switzerland at your fingertips.

Speech - 150e anniversaire du passage de la frontière de l’armée du général Bourbaki

29.01.2022 — EDA
Allocution du président de la Confédération Ignazio Cassis, chef du Département fédéral des affaires étrangères, à l’occasion du 150e anniversaire du passage de la frontière de l’armée du général Bourbaki - Check against delivery.

"Digitalisation - an opportunity for Europe's democratic values"

21.05.2021 — EDA
Speech by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), on the occasion of the 131st (virtual) Session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. Check against delivery.

Official opening of the Ceneri Base Tunnel

04.09.2020 — EDA
Camorino, 04.09.2020 - Address by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis on the occasion of the Inauguration Ceremony "Ceneri2020" - Check against delivery

Passaggio di testimone tra generazioni (de-fr-it)

25.08.2020 — EDA
Bern, 25.08.2020: Address by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis on the occasion of the retirement of the ambassadors and the welcoming of the young diplomats who are taking up their posts in the service of the FDFA. Check against delivery.

75 years of the United Nations (fr)

26.06.2020 — EDA
Geneva, 26.06.2020: Address by the Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis on the 75th anniversary of the signing of the United Nations Charter - Check against delivery

Opening of the 43rd session of the Human Rights Council (fr)

24.02.2020 — EDA
Geneva, 24.02.2020 - Speech by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis - Check against delivery

SDC Newsletter: Africa, CO2 reduction and WEF

29.01.2020 — DEZA
The FDFA has showcased some innovative technology at the 50th WEF, which could reduce global CO2 emissions by millions of tonnes per year. The SDC undertakes a range of projects in the construction industry, working in cooperation with academia and the private sector. The aim of these projects, which are located in emerging economies, is to tackle global warming effectively.

Discover the world with the FDFA and with peace mind

17.01.2020 — Article EDA
Just what is the perfect trip abroad? And where would it take you? Swiss travellers have different needs and expectations – some prefer to go on their own, others would rather choose an organised tour. It doesn't matter if you're a backpacker or a jet-setter: the FDFA provides a wide range of services for anyone who wants to travel abroad.

Honeyland Oscar nominee

14.01.2020 — Article DEZA
Honeyland has been nominated for an Oscar in the categories Best International Feature Film and Best Documentary. The film’s hero, Hatidze Muratova, champions environmental protection and the sustainable management of natural resources. She was discovered through the Nature Conservation Programme launched by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

Switzerland and Italy reach an agreement on Campione d'Italia

20.12.2019 — EDA
At its meeting on 20 December 2019, the Federal Council approved an exchange of notes between Switzerland and Italy regarding the change of the customs status of the Italian enclave of Campione d'Italia. This exchange of notes is necessary to ensure legal certainty and facilitates the transition of Campione d'Italia into the European Union's customs territory, scheduled for 1 January 2020.

Third meeting of the Working Group on Unresolved Issues established by the Joint Committee supervising the implementation of the Agreement between the Government of Georgia and the Government of the Russian Federation

19.12.2019 — EDA
On 16 and 17 December 2019 a third meeting of the Working Group on Unresolved Issues established by the Joint Committee, supervising the implementation of the Agreement between the Government of Georgia and the Government of the Russian Federation on the basic principles for a mechanism of customs administration and monitoring of trade in goods, signed on 9 November 2011, took place in Bern.

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