Swiss Abroad

Red Cross’ battle of nerves and funds continues

This content was published on May 22, 2001 “The ball is in the American court. It’s up to them to take a decision,” IFRC spokeswoman Marie-Françoise Borel told swissinfo. “Our position is that these two issues should not be linked.” The Americans insist that Israel’s national society, Magen David Adom (MDA), be accepted as a member of the federation. But this is not…

Swiss Politics

France says bilateral accords will be ratified by end of year

This content was published on May 18, 2001 Védrine, who also held talks with the Swiss foreign minister, Joseph Deiss, said that prospects for the ratification of a key agreement governing the free movement of people was “looking good”. France is one of six EU member countries, which has yet to ratify the agreement on the free movement of people. That accord is…

Swiss Politics

Samaranch given Lausanne honour as mandate draws to close

This content was published on May 18, 2001 At a ceremony on Thursday evening, Samaranch was awarded the Keys to the Olympic Capital in recognition of his role in giving Lausanne its present sporting and international influence. “With this symbolic gesture, the Municipality wanted to say to the IOC president that he will always be welcome in this city, with which he has…

Swiss Politics

Cabinet unveils new treaties

This content was published on May 17, 2001 Three other issues, including tax evasion and closer security cooperation, have been put on the backburner. A cabinet spokesman said in Bern on Thursday these issues would need further preparatory talks. The mandates for the latest round of bilateral treaties, which still have to be presented to parliament’s foreign affairs committees, will be formally adopted…

Swiss politicians on charm offensive in Europe

This content was published on May 16, 2001 The delegation of four parliamentary deputies were in Paris on Wednesday for talks with members of the French Parliament, the Assemblée Nationale. Other delegations are to travel to Berlin and Vienna in the coming weeks, and to Brussels after the summer break. There is no set agenda for what Anton Cottier, a senator and member…

Swiss Politics

Head of Christian Democratic Party steps down

This content was published on May 12, 2001 In his departure speech at the delegates’ assembly in Wil on Friday, Durrer regretted the party had again lost votes during the last Federal elections. Durrer pointed out that the party had failed to come up with key dossiers which would have distinguished it from other political groups. He also urged that members should strive…

Swiss Politics

Swiss president opens new embassy in Berlin

This content was published on May 11, 2001 Opening the embassy on Friday, Leuenberger spoke of Switzerland’s and Germany’s shared goal of preserving peace and security in Europe. He added that the embassy building, located near the new German chancellery and parliament, was a symbol of two countries’ close ties. Among the guests at the lavish ceremony was Shawne Fielding, the wife of…

Swiss Politics

Controversial new Swiss embassy opens in Berlin

This content was published on May 11, 2001 About 200 guests, including the Swiss president, Moritz Leuenberger, are attending the opening party. Many eyes, however, will also be on Shawne Fielding, wife of ambassador Thomas Borer. Her revealing pictures for a German magazine last week caused a storm, and initial doubts whether she would be allowed to attend the event. She confirmed her…

Swiss Politics

Bern’s Burghers still thriving after 800 years

This content was published on May 11, 2001 The “Bürgergemeinden” – called “Patriziate” in Ticino and “Bourgeoisie” in Valais – are legally incorporated entities, often dating back to the Middle Ages. Over the centuries their members acquired power, wealth and influence. Today, although they no longer rule their communities, their wealth and influence remain. In rural areas these associations often began with groups…

Swiss Politics

Russians return blocked Swiss military equipment

This content was published on May 10, 2001 The convoy, carrying 50 small Pinzgauer trucks, was stopped by the Russians near the Azerbaijan border in September. Another transport destined for Georgia, which was held up near the Ukraine border, had 27 tonnes of items such as old winter uniforms and sanitary equipment. It was released by the Russians last month. The Russians complained…

Swiss Abroad

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Swiss Abroad

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Red Cross’ battle of nerves and funds continues

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France says bilateral accords will be ratified by end of year

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Samaranch given Lausanne honour as mandate draws to close

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Cabinet unveils new treaties

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Swiss politicians on charm offensive in Europe

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Head of Christian Democratic Party steps down

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Swiss president opens new embassy in Berlin

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Controversial new Swiss embassy opens in Berlin

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Bern’s Burghers still thriving after 800 years

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Russians return blocked Swiss military equipment

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