The President of the Swiss Confederation, Mr Didier Burkhalter, attended the Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia, from 7 to 8 February 2014. During his visit, Mr Burkhalter attended the opening of the Olympic Games on the evening of 7 February.

2014 marks the 200th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Russia. A reception attended by President Burkhalter was held on 8 February in the House of Switzerland to launch a year of festivities. A meeting with Swiss athletes was also scheduled to take place during Mr Burkhalter's visit to Sochi.

A partner of choice

The Russian Federation is a partner of choice for Switzerland. Reciprocal visits take place every year at the ministerial level. For example, Didier Burkhalter visited Moscow on 24 and 25 October 2013. In 2009, Dmitry Medvedev was the first Russian head of government to make a state visit to Switzerland.

The two countries also have regular consultations and contacts on various matters, including human rights, security and disarmament, and multilateral matters. As a neutral country, Switzerland represents Russia's interests in Georgia and Georgia's interests in Russia.

Economic relations have grown considerably and are expected to develop still further. Switzerland is, in fact, one of the largest investors in Russia, and cultural and scientific exchanges are constantly on the increase.

Bilateral relations Switzerland–Russian Federation

Further information