PHL Embassy in Berne Hosts Diplomatic Reception in Celebration of the 60th Anniversary of PH-Switzerland Diplomatic Relations
Philippine Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein Joselito A. Jimeno and Head of Bilateral Economic Relations of State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) Ambassador Livia Leu delivering their speeches
28 June 2017 BERNE — The Philippine Embassy in Berne hosted a diplomatic reception at the Rathaus Berne to mark the 60th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Switzerland, which also coincides with the celebration the 119th anniversary of Philippine Independence.
Philippine Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein Joselito A. Jimeno briefly traced the history of Philippine-Swiss relations from the 1800s to the present.
“Switzerland’s unwitting role in our struggle as a nation continues to the modern day through its chairmanship of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) as the Philippines continues its quest for peace and progress,” said Ambassador Jimeno.
He added, “The Philippines equally hopes to learn from Swiss lessons in federalism and vocational-technical education and training.”
Ambassador Jimeno also expressed hope that the ratification and implementation of the Free Trade Agreement between the Philippines and EFTA countries will bring more opportunities for expanded trade flows and commercial exchanges between the Philippines and Switzerland.
Guest of Honor Ambassador Livia Leu, Head of Bilateral Economic Relations of State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), replied on behalf of the Swiss government. She said that trade between the Philippines and Switzerland continues to grow through the years, and expressed optimism that commercial exchanges between the two countries will be boosted by the Free Trade Agreement between the Philippines and EFTA countries.
Three hundred guests attended the event, during which they were treated to an array of Philippine cuisine, delicacies, and Philippine-made rum.
For more information, visit www.bernepe.dfa.gov.ph or https://www.facebook.com/PHembassyBerne. END