The reception gathered representatives of the Serbian Government, Orthodox and Catholic Church in Serbia, foreign diplomatic missions in Serbia, Swiss and Serbian business community, media, and culture. For the second part of the evening, the Swiss colony in Serbia was invited to celebrate their national day at the Swiss Residence.

The event served as an occasion to celebrate the foundation of Switzerland – dating back to 1291 -, but also the very good relationships that have been built with Serbia over the years.

At the official part of the event guests were addressed by the newly appointed Ambassador of Switzerland to the Republic of Serbia, H.E. Anne Lugon-Moulin. The ambassador recalled a recent series of high-level visits of Swiss Ministers to Belgrade – Federal Councilor Ignazio Cassis, Federal Councilor Beat Jans, as well as the former Swiss President and current Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Mr. Alain Berset, which all speak about the close bilateral ties between our two countries.

The Program was enriched by the performance of Ms. Gabrijela Ubavic Baumgarten, a famous lyric coloratura-soprano opera singer that performed both Swiss and Serbian National Anthems a Capella.

Ambassador Lugon-Moulin used the opportunity to remind the guests of the important anniversary this year. “This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, a backbone of the international law in times of conflicts and wars. As depository state, Switzerland strives to recall their importance to all nations, in the current time seeing a clear resurgence of armed conflicts.” The ambassador also announced the upcoming first Serbian-Swiss Innovation Forum in December, organized on the initiative and in cooperation with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation of Serbia.

After the official part, the guests had the possibility to taste typical Swiss dishes and drinks and enjoy the musical program.