FDFA responds to the execution of 48 people in Saudi Arabia

Bern, Press release, 04.01.2016

The FDFA summons the chargé d’affaires of Saudi Arabia and reiterates its opposition as a matter of principle to the death penalty in any part of the world and under any circumstances.

In response to the recent execution of 48 people in Saudi Arabia, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) has summoned Saudi Arabia's chargé d'affaires to explain Switzerland's position.

Switzerland reiterates its opposition as a matter of principle to the death penalty in any part of the world and under any circumstances. These mass executions risk rekindling the sectarian tensions that have already claimed far too many victims in this part of the world. Now is the time to make every possible effort to reduce tensions and avoid provocations. Switzerland therefore calls on the governments of the region to strive to de-escalate the situation.

Switzerland also emphasises the importance of ensuring the security of diplomatic missions as required by international law.


Address for enquiries:

Information FDFA
Bundeshaus West
CH-3003 Bern
Tel.: +41 58 462 31 53
Fax: +41 58 464 90 47
E-Mail: info@eda.admin.ch


Publisher:

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs