Moldova, Swiss Confederation to step up bilateral relations

Chisinau, Oct. 20 /MOLDPRES/- President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu paid a two-day official visit to the Swiss Confederation, following an invitation of President Alain Berset.

According to the presidential press service, the head of state met with President Berset and members of the Federal Council, Guy Parmelin, Federal Councilor for Economy, Vocational Education and Research, Ignazio Cassis, Federal Councilor for Foreign Affairs and Elisabeth Baume-Schneider, Federal Councilor for Justice and Police.

The dialogue focused on boosting bilateral relations, carrying out potential for economic cooperation and continuing Swiss assistance for projects meant to improve the living standard in Moldova.

"Switzerland has all my gratitude for the fact that it is still with us through development programs," said the head of state. As a sign of solidarity with Moldova affected by the Russian invasion against Ukraine, Switzerland has increased its support for 2022 and 2023, and on October 17, within the Moldova Support Platform, it announced new non-refundable funding worth 25 million Swiss francs for 2024.

The two officials have signed a joint declaration, laying the foundations for a future agreement on social protection, which will guarantee the protection of workers' rights in both countries. Bilateral cooperation in the work and tourism was also approached.

In the joint press conference with President Berset, Maia Sandu emphasized the support of Swiss partners in the fight against corruption. 

The official also had a discussion with Gretta Fenner, Director General of the International Center for Asset Recovery. The sides tackled ways to collaborate in justice reform, asset recovery and development of professional expertise in the field.

The agenda also included a visit to the pharmaceutical company Roche and a dialogue with students of Zurich Technical University. 

Photo: Presidency