Berne, 16 June 2017 – 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 this year of the 119th anniversary of Philippine Independence.
In his message, 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.
Ambassador Jimeno and Ambassador Leu delivering their speeches
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 further boosted by the Free Trade Agreement between the Philippines and EFTA countries.
Ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake
The speeches were followed by a ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake. Ms. Michelle Eduarte from the Philippine Mission in Geneva set the mood for the dinner buffet with her rendition of the chill-out song “Love”.
Around 300 guests attended the event, during which they were treated to an array of Philippine cuisine, delicacies, and Philippine-made rum. Various Philippine companies, including Don Papa Rum, Red Ribbon Bakeshop, Mama Sita and Profoods International Corp., sponsored the giveaway for the event. END
