Switzerland to build future with PHL by way of innovation, sustainability
THE Swiss Confederation has reaffirmed its strong ties with the Philippines, as it looks toward future opportunities for growth and development.
As the two countries mark 65 years of formal linkages that began on May 9, 1957, Switzerland continues its work of “Building the Future, Together” with the Philippines. Part of the year-long commemoration, the former’s embassy supported the establishment of a friendship center at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and held a celebratory gathering at the Bulwagang Apolinario Mabini with former Filipino diplomats who were posted in the European country.
“Our goal of building the future together is a manifestation of where we wish to take Swiss-philippine relations this year,” Ambassador Alain Gaschen shared. “We see the potential for mutual growth between our two countries…we wish to maximize the opportunities…as we celebrate our 65th anniversary of diplomatic [ties] this 2022.”
Gaschen shared that the Swiss Embassy in the Philippines will highlight various initiatives and projects spread across the current year, in line
with the vision of showcasing the European country’s position in the fields of innovation and sustainability, among others: “Switzerland has consistently topped global rankings in these fields…we wish to tap this part of our identity to find more ways to build the future together.”
Some projects in the pipeline include the “65 Stories for 65 Years” campaign, featuring 65 unique individuals who have contributed to the strong relationship between both countries, an exhibit bannering Swiss innovation and sustainability, a weeklong celebration of Swiss gastronomy featuring a Michelin-starred Swiss chef, and the third edition of the solidarity project: “Angels for Angels.”
The establishment of the friendship center, the Swiss envoy noted, serves as a symbolic gesture of the good relationship of the two countries, as it involves investing in the development of possibly the future generation of Filipino diplomats.
“Our relationship was formed, strengthened, and nurtured by way of people-to-people ties,” Gaschen pointed out. “It is important that we continue to recognize this, as we embark on the next 65 years, where we will build our future together.”