During the discussions with the local authorities, Switzerland's contribution to reducing the differences between Romania's development regions was highlighted, through the Swiss-Romanian Cooperation Programme totalling CHF 221.5 million, which finances support measures for projects in areas such as vocational training, research and innovation, development of small and medium-sized enterprises, energy efficiency, health and public safety.
The meeting with the President of the County Council was a good opportunity for an open and constructive discussion, which addressed issues related to relations between Romania and Switzerland, with a focus on areas of investment in Timiș County, and reconfirmed the importance of the close ties between the two countries, which generate trade and cultural exchanges beneficial to both sides.
Discussions focused on categories such as dual education, energy and agriculture, where Timiș County and Switzerland can work together to bring concrete benefits to the local community.
Ambassador Massimo Baggi underlined the commitment of the Swiss Embassy to strengthen these relations and promote Swiss interests and values throughout the country and the region, while assuming the role of being an active and committed partner in the development of cooperation between the two countries, by supporting projects and initiatives that contribute to the strengthening of bilateral relations.
He said he was impressed by the effervescence of cultural events in the city, mentioning the Festival of Schools of Architecture, where Swiss architects were also present.
Ambassador Massimo Baggi also took the opportunity to visit the Hamilton factory in Giarmata, a good opportunity to discuss with the company's management the major investment plans for the coming years that continue the directions of modernism, ergonomics and sustainability, but also innovation, research and state-of-the-art technologies.
The discussions also touched the dual education, and the essential role it plays in education, as well as Hamilton's involvement in this type of education.