Iran in Egypt
Switzerland has been representing Iranian interests in Egypt since 1979.
USA in Iran
Switzerland has been representing US interests in Iran since 1980. Its Foreign Interests Section in Tehran handles all US consular affairs in Iran including passport applications, changes in civil status or consular protection for US citizens.
The protecting power mandate dates back to the 1980 hostage crisis when the US broke off relations with Iran following the country's self-proclamation as an Islamic republic, and students occupied the US embassy in Tehran taking a number of US diplomats hostage.
Russia and Georgia
Switzerland has been acting as protecting power for Russia in Georgia since the end of 2008 and for Georgia in Russia since the beginning of 2009. Both states use their own staff to carry out administrative, technical and consular matters on the ground but the foreign interest sections fall under Switzerland's protection.
Georgia broke off diplomatic ties with Russia after the August 2008 war and Russia's recognition of the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
Iran and Saudi Arabia
Switzerland represents Iran’s interests in Saudi Arabia and Saudi Arabia’s interests in Iran. It signed treaties with both countries to this effect at the end of October 2017, which entered into force in March 2018. The mandate covers consular services.
Saudi Arabia broke off relations with Iran at the beginning of January 2016.
Media release, 25.10.2017 – Good offices: Switzerland takes on protecting power mandate for Iran and Saudi Arabia
Iran in Canada
Since June 2019, Switzerland has also been representing Iranian interests in Canada. This mandate does not cover consular services.
