Swiss Foreign Minister arrives in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, March 18, 2024 (FBC) – The Foreign Minister of Switzerland Ignazio Cassis has arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for a working visit.

His visit to Ethiopia is expected to focus on bilateral relations and regional geopolitical issues, according to a recent official press release from the Swiss foreign ministry. Ethiopia, the second largest country in Africa in terms of population, is a strategically important partner for Switzerland, particularly in the areas of business, science and migration, the statement underlined, the Swiss MFA underscored.

The Swiss MFA stressed in the statement that the Greater Horn of Africa is one of the most dynamic regions in the world, but is also one of the most fragile and severely affected by conflict.

Following his arrival in Addis Ababa, Mr Cassis confirmed in a post on his X, formerly Twitter, page that he held a discussion with the his Ethiopian counterpart Taye Atske-Selassie earlier today.

He is also expected to meet with President Sahle-Work Zewde.

Besides to the senior Ethiopian government officials, Mr Cassis will also meet with Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the AU Commission, to discuss ways of stepping up cooperation between Switzerland and the AU.

National Councillors Monika Rüegger (SVP/Obwalden) and Farah Rumy (SP/Soloturn), both members of the National Council’s Foreign Affairs Committee, have accompanied Mr Cassis on his arrival to the Ethiopian capital.