Calmy-Rey praises Arab Spring activists
Swiss President and Foreign Minister Micheline Calmy-Rey has thanked the activists who have pushed for democracy as part of the Arab Spring.
Speaking at the annual Political Affairs Division IV conference in Bern on Tuesday, Calmy-Rey praised their courage and efforts in northern Africa and the Middle East. The focus of this year’s conference is the uprisings in the Arab world.
“You are the future of your country and your region because you are fighting for change, dignity and democracy,” said Micheline Calmy-Rey to the international audience, which included some representatives from the Arab world.
She added that their efforts had proved that they were the agents of change, rather than dictators or al-Qaeda.
Calmy-Rey also said that Switzerland could offer its support in a “spirit of partnership” on the road to democracy – particularly in terms of boosting security and helping to establish democratic elections.
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