As the official representation of Switzerland, the embassy covers all matters concerning diplomatic relations between the two countries. It represents Swiss interests in the areas of political, economic and financial affairs, legal arrangements, science, education and culture, climate change adaptation and mitigation, international development cooperation and humanitarian aid.
Tasks of the Embassy
The embassy supports cooperation between Switzerland and the host country. In this respect, close contact with the competent ministries is important. Bilateral meetings organised by the embassy are used to strengthen relations between Switzerland and the host country.
The embassy promotes Swiss economic interests in the host country and the implementation of bilateral trade and investment agreements. It establishes contacts with Swiss businesses and provides them with general information and advice concerning the economy of the host country. The embassy monitors the economic and political situation in the country and communicates developments that are of interest to Switzerland.
The embassy fosters collaboration in the areas of science, technology and education with the aim of strengthening cooperation between the two countries in terms of research and innovation. It promotes the exchange of ideas between scientific institutions and universities. It also supports Swiss students in the host country and tries to encourage qualified students from the host country to study in Switzerland.
In terms of culture, the embassy aims to promote mutual understanding in its work to implement Swiss cultural policy. It strengthens contacts with – and between – relevant cultural institutions of Switzerland and the host country, and also with artists, for example supporting Swiss artists who would like to show their work abroad. Events organised or supported by the embassy should highlight Switzerland's commitment to culture and help build bridges between different cultures.
With regard to the media, the embassy acts as an interface between the Swiss government and the official representations in the host country and the national and international media in the host country. It supports the work of journalists working for Swiss media.
The embassy strives to tackle climate change as a global challenge in the context of sustainable development, to strengthen the dialogue with the host country on international development cooperation, to enhance the cooperation on search and rescue and, to provide emergency relief in case of necessity.