History shows that there have also been“dark times” in relations between the two countries, Keller-Sutter said on Wednesday during an appearance in the Federal Palace, alluding to the apartheid era. She therefore expressed her delight at the diverse and lively relations that exist today.

South Africa is the most important destination for Swiss direct investment in Africa today, emphasised Keller-Sutter. She also referred to similarities in political culture. Both countries are multicultural, multilingual countries:“This has taught us the importance of compromise”. With its history, South Africa is in a good position to support other countries in the search for peaceful solutions to conflicts.

Keller-Sutter announced that Switzerland and South Africa wanted to strengthen their co-operation in the area of mediation. The foreign ministers of both countries would sign a declaration of intent on this later. There will be further agreements in areas such as trade, education and culture. This demonstrates the desire to deepen bilateral relations.

This content was published on Jun 23, 2024 Before the first free elections in South Africa 30 years ago, Switzerland had close economic ties with the apartheid regime.