sanews - 4 days ago

SA–Swiss relations set to grow stronger following historic State Visit By Dikeledi Molobela Bern, Switzerland – President Cyril Ramaphosa has described his State Visit to Switzerland - the first official visit by a South African Head of State since the dawn of democracy - as a milestone in the enduring relationship between the two countries. Speaking during a press conference in Bern on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa expressed his great honour at being on a two-day State Visit at the invitation of President Karin Keller-Sutter of the Swiss Confederation. “This is an important milestone in our longstanding partnership and a testament to our mutually beneficial relations. “During our discussions today, we focused on international issues and the bilateral relations between our two countries. We discussed cooperation in trade and investment, science and innovation, and higher education and training,” he said. Switzerland remains one of South Africa’s most significant economic partners, with strong links in investment, research, and industrial cooperation. President Ramaphosa noted that both countries share a vision of inclusive growth and sustainable development. “We noted that Switzerland is one of our major trade, investment and economic cooperation partners and we agreed that this visit will give our relationship new momentum. This visit will not only raise the profile of our relations but contribute to better political and economic ties. It will foster greater cooperation and understanding between the people of Switzerland and South Africa,” the President said. The President also welcomed Switzerland’s new Africa Strategy for 2025–2028, which outlines its commitment to supporting democratic governance, peacebuilding, and development across the continent. “We note with appreciation that Switzerland has recently launched its new Africa Strategy for the period 2025–2028, reflecting its commitment to supporting democratic processes, good governance and development,” he said. President Ramaphosa further commended Switzerland for its global role in promoting peace and mediation, particularly its efforts in conflict resolution across the African continent. “We further noted Switzerland’s role in advancing peace and security within the United Nations and around the world, notably in various conflict areas on the African continent such as Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sudan,” he said. Acknowledging Switzerland’s ongoing support for South Africa’s economic transformation, President Ramaphosa said he was encouraged by the impact of Swiss-led initiatives that promote growth and inclusivity. “I also used the opportunity to commend the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs for their significant contributions to improving the lives of South Africans through various initiatives to foster economic growth, sustainability and inclusivity,” he said. A key focus of the visit was the development of a youth cooperation framework aimed at promoting training, innovation, and skills development for young people. “The President and I had previously discussed the development of a youth cooperation framework and I look forward to our further engagement in this regard,” he said. South Africa expressed gratitude for Switzerland’s support for its G20 Presidency, particularly around the themes of inclusive growth, climate action, and reforming global financial institutions. “We thanked Switzerland for its public support of our G20 Presidency and the priorities of inclusive economic growth, debt management, support for multilateral development banks, climate change and the reform of global governance institutions,” he said. President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for Switzerland’s partnership in the repatriation of cultural artefacts belonging to the Nkuna Royal Family, which were formally handed over earlier in the visit. “I conclude by thanking the Swiss Government for the constructive cooperation in the repatriation efforts of the heritage objects of the Nkuna Royal Family, which will now occupy their rightful place in Limpopo in South Africa,” he said. Reflecting on the spirit of the visit, President Ramaphosa said both countries were committed to elevating their friendship to new heights. “Relations between South Africa and Switzerland have come a long way. From this State Visit, we are confident that they will go even further and achieve greater benefits for the people of both countries.” The press conference followed official talks and a welcome ceremony earlier in the day at the Federal Square in Bern, where President Ramaphosa was received by Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter with full military honours. – SAnews.gov.za DikelediM Wed, 10/29/2025 - 22:00 144 views

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