This visit was carried out together with representatives from Oman and Türkiye, as well as the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) and Conciliation Resources (CR), reflecting the importance of international partnerships and multi-actor cooperation in advancing mediation and dialogue
At the invitation of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation Ambassador Enderlin delivered keynote remarks at the Opening Symposium of its newly established Center for Mediation Support. Drawing on Switzerland’s long-standing engagement in discreet mediation and dialogue processes, he highlighted practical lessons on mediation design, trust-building, and the role of neutral actors in complex conflicts.
In his bilateral meeting with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Iwao Horii, discussions focused on the evolving role of mediation in foreign policy, including Japan’s recent institutional innovations in this domain. Both sides exchanged views on opportunities for closer cooperation, particularly in leveraging comparative advantages—Switzerland’s operational experience and Japan’s expanding diplomatic toolkit—to support conflict prevention and resolution efforts globally.
Ambassador Enderlin also engaged with members of Japan’s All-Party Parliamentary Groups on Peace Mediation and on Women, Peace and Security, reflecting a shared recognition of the importance of inclusive approaches and parliamentary ownership in advancing mediation agendas.
Further exchanges included meetings with Dr. Yohei Sasakawa, Honorary Chair of the Nippon Foundation, and Dr. Atsushi Sunami, President of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, where discussions centered on the role of non-governmental actors and philanthropic institutions in sustaining mediation ecosystems.
On 12 May, Ambassador Enderlin participated in a panel discussion hosted by the Swiss Ambassador to Japan, Roger Dubach, alongside leading experts Dr. Daniel Möckli ( Centre for Security Studies at ETH Zurich) and Dr. Katia Papagianni (Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue). The discussion, moderated by Dr Akiko Horiba (Sasakawa Peace Foundation), examined Switzerland’s mediation approach, emphasizing impartiality, long-term engagement, and the integration of humanitarian and political tracks. The event convened a diverse audience of Japanese parliamentarians, government officials, diplomats, academics, and civil society representatives.
During his visit, Ambassador Enderlin also held consultations with officials from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including the International Peace Mediation Unit, the Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs Division, and the Southeast and Southwest Asian Affairs Department. These exchanges provided an opportunity to explore concrete avenues for institutional cooperation and knowledge-sharing.
Switzerland’s engagement in peace mediation is anchored in its broader commitment to international law, human rights, and multilateralism. Supported by the unique ecosystem of international organizations in Geneva, Switzerland continues to serve as a trusted platform for dialogue and negotiation. The visit to Japan reaffirms Switzerland’s intent to deepen partnerships with like-minded actors seeking to enhance the effectiveness and legitimacy of mediation efforts worldwide.
