Row over ‘export ban’ to Saudi Arabia takes new turn
Switzerland’s office of the attorney general has opened a criminal investigation in connection with the sale of military training aircraft to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
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swissinfo.ch with Keystone-SDA/ug
The federal prosecutor’s office did not specify any defendant on Friday but said the probe was linked to alleged violations of Swiss law governing private security services.
The ministry ordered Pilatus to pull out of the two countries within 90 days. It argues the support services and the replacement of spare parts are incompatible with Switzerland’s foreign policy objectives.
The decision has drawn harsh criticism from the local business community and cantonal governments in central Switzerland. Pilatus announced plans to take the foreign ministry to court.
In 2017, Pilatus delivered 55 PC- 21military training aircraft to Saudi Arabia and the UAE – both have been involved in a military conflict in Yemen.
Pilatus has rejected the foreign ministry allegations, saying the company’s activities in Saudi Arabia are covered by a 2012 export permit.
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North African asylum claims fall after rapid Swiss processing
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Around ten climate activists briefly blocked the A2 motorway near the northern entrance of the Gotthard tunnel on Thursday.
Watches belonging to Michael Schumacher up for auction
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Schumacher's family is auctioning off eight rare watches from his collection in Geneva. The Christie's auction will take place on Monday.
Joya Marleen and Baschi named best solo acts at Swiss Music Awards
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St. Gallen singer Joya Marleen and Baschi from Basel were named artists of the year at the Swiss Music Awards 2024 on Wednesday night.
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Swiss arms exports still at odds with humanitarian tradition
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A Swiss historian explains how the "arms exports versus humanitarian tradition" paradox has been a recurrent theme since the First World War.
Air defence parts can be returned to Saudi Arabia, says Swiss ministry
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Parts for Saudi Arabia’s air defence systems, which have been repaired in Switzerland, can be re-exported back to the Gulf state.
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If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.