CommunicationPublished on 9 January 2021

The FDFA is concerned about the recent incidents in Washington D.C.

Following the incidents around the Capitol in Washington DC, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis condemned any attack on freedom, democracy and national integrity. At the same time, he underlined his confidence in the institutions of the USA. State Secretary Livia Leu received the Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Bern.

Following the incidents in Washington, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis condemned in a tweet any attack on freedom, democracy and national integrity. — © FDFA

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis spoke to the media about the events in Washington. — © RSI

The FDFA followed the events of 6 January in Washington with great concern. Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis condemned any attack on freedom, democracy and national cohesion, while at the same time underlining in a statement his confidence in the institutions of the USA.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis spoke to the media about the events in Washington (from minute 5:35). In a second interview with RSI (from minute 16:10), he also spoke about other current political issues (e.g. COVID-19, diplomatic corps/process of transfers).

State Secretary Livia Leu expressed Switzerland's concern about the use of violence and in particular the deaths to the Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Bern.

The conversation between State Secretary Livia Leu and the Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Bern took place in an open and transparent manner, reflecting Switzerland's long-standing friendly relations with the US. Ms Leu emphasised that the Federal Council looked forward to further deepening the excellent relations between the two countries with the future administration in Washington.

Even though the news about the use of violence and especially the deaths have caused great concern in Switzerland, the country trusts in the strength of the democratic institutions in the USA and is convinced that they will defend their constitution and the rule of law, said Ms Leu.

Protestors storm the Capitol in Washington. The incidents of 6 January 2021 have caused concern in Switzerland as well as in many other countries around the world. — © KEYSTONE

Free and fair elections are an essential element of democratic political systems based on the rule of law. A smooth transition of office is crucial. The FDFA has taken note of President Trump's statement in this regard and hopes that the transition of office on 20 January2021 will be constitutional and peaceful.