Switzerland Celebrates National Day with a Grand Reception in Cairo
DT (Cairo): By Doaa Mohamed
Switzerland celebrated its National Day at home and abroad, bringing together Swiss communities worldwide. The Swiss National Day was celebrated in Egypt with a grand reception hosted by the Swiss Ambassador to Egypt, H.E. Yvonne Baumann. The event highlighted Switzerland’s rich history and traditions and the strong bilateral relations between Switzerland and Egypt, especially in the fields of economics and culture.
Swiss National Day: A Celebration of Heritage and Unity
The Swiss National Day, celebrated on August 1st every year, is a major public holiday in Switzerland. It commemorates the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291 when the three cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden pledged mutual support against external threats. This historic pact is considered the foundation of modern Switzerland. Over the years, the holiday has become a symbol of national unity, heritage, and pride.
In Switzerland, the National Day is marked with traditional festivities such as parades, fireworks, street markets, and music concerts. Families and friends gather to celebrate with fondue, a popular Swiss dish made from melted cheese and bread, while the streets and homes are decorated with Swiss flags and flowers. Many people dress in traditional Swiss attire, adding to the cultural atmosphere.
A Grand Reception in Cairo
In celebration of this important day, H.E. Yvonne Baumann, the Swiss Ambassador to Egypt, hosted a special reception at the Swiss Embassy in Cairo. The event was attended by key figures from both countries, including Dr. Mohamed Shaker, Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, and Mr. Ayman Ateya, Governor of Qalyubia. Also present were Ambassador Yasser Hashem, Deputy Assistant Minister for European Affairs, as well as ambassadors, diplomats, and representatives from international organizations, Swiss companies, and institutions in Egypt.
The event was a vibrant display of Swiss culture, with traditional Swiss folk music setting the tone for the evening. Swiss and Egyptian flags adorned the venue, symbolizing the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations: A Partnership in Growth
In her opening remarks, Ambassador Yvonne Baumann praised the enduring relationship between Switzerland and Egypt, highlighting the strength of their bilateral cooperation across various sectors. She particularly emphasized the importance of economic ties, pointing to the presence of over 60 Swiss companies operating in Egypt. These companies, spanning industries from pharmaceuticals to food production, have played a vital role in supporting Egypt’s economic development.
Ambassador Baumann also acknowledged the significant contributions of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), which has been active in Egypt since the 1970s. The SDC works closely with Egyptian partners on projects related to water resource management, vocational training, and inclusive economic growth, reflecting Switzerland’s commitment to supporting sustainable development in Egypt.
The Historical Ties Between Egypt and Switzerland
The diplomatic relations between Egypt and Switzerland date back over a century, with the two countries enjoying a strong partnership based on mutual respect and shared interests. In 1909, Switzerland opened its first consulate in Egypt, and since then, the relationship has grown steadily. Over the years, both nations have signed numerous agreements in areas such as trade, investment, and education, fostering closer cooperation.
Switzerland is one of Egypt’s key trading partners in Europe, with a trade volume that continues to grow annually. The partnership is further strengthened by regular exchanges of high-level visits, as well as collaborations in areas such as culture, science, and environmental protection.
Ambassador Yvonne Baumann: A Diplomat Committed to Building Bridges
H.E. Yvonne Baumann has been a pivotal figure in fostering Swiss-Egyptian relations since her appointment as the Swiss Ambassador to Egypt. A seasoned diplomat with a distinguished career, Ambassador Baumann has worked in various regions, including the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Her extensive experience in international relations and diplomacy has made her a key player in strengthening Switzerland’s presence in Egypt.
Under her leadership, the Swiss Embassy in Cairo has launched numerous cultural and economic initiatives aimed at promoting Swiss interests in Egypt while supporting local development projects. Ambassador Baumann’s commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and sustainable development has been instrumental in enhancing the partnership between the two nations.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Further Collaboration
The Swiss National Day reception not only celebrated Switzerland’s rich cultural heritage but also underscored the potential for even deeper collaboration between Egypt and Switzerland. As both countries continue to explore new avenues for cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, innovation, and education, the future of Swiss-Egyptian relations looks promising.
Ambassador Baumann expressed her optimism for the continued growth of bilateral ties, noting that the shared values of both nations—such as a commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development—will serve as a foundation for future cooperation.
In closing, she thanked the guests for attending and reiterated Switzerland’s commitment to working closely with Egypt for the mutual benefit of both nations. The evening concluded with more traditional Swiss music and a sense of unity and celebration, marking another successful chapter in the enduring friendship between Switzerland and Egypt.
