Statehood Day Marked at the Embassy of Serbia in Bern: “Switzerland and Serbia Are Not Only Cooperating States – They Are Societies That Understand One Another”
The reception was attended by a large number of distinguished guests from Switzerland’s political, diplomatic, and business circles, including more than 50 ambassadors accredited in Bern, representatives of international organizations, members of the Swiss Parliament, as well as numerous members of the Serbian diaspora.
The event was further honored by the presence of distinguished guests: Swiss State Secretary at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Alexandre Fasel and Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia Dušan Kozarev, who addressed the audience together with the Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia to Switzerland, Ivan Trifunović.
In his address, Ambassador Trifunović emphasized that relations between Serbia and Switzerland go beyond the traditional framework of interstate cooperation, stressing that they are relations between societies that understand and respect one another. Reflecting on his long-standing personal ties with Switzerland, he highlighted the values of the Swiss political system, particularly the culture of direct democracy, institutional stability, and a high level of trust between citizens and the state. He also underscored the importance of the Serbian diaspora as a vital and living bridge between the two countries.
State Secretary Fasel confirmed that the President of the Swiss Confederation, Guy Parmelin, will pay an official visit to the Republic of Serbia in April, describing it as a strong political signal and a particularly significant event in this jubilee year. He highlighted the dynamic nature of bilateral relations, recalling the intensive air traffic as well as the close economic and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
Secretary General Kozarev expressed condolences following the tragic event in Crans-Montana, in which Serbian national Stefan Ivanović lost his life, emphasizing his heroic and humane act. In his remarks, he also addressed the situation of the Serbian community in Kosovo and Metohija, pointing to the challenges it faces and the importance of continued attention from the international community.
The reception was enriched by a vibrant cultural program featuring performances by young Serbian classical musicians, while a particularly emotional impression was left by the interpretation of “Moonlight over the Danube” by the renowned jazz composer Bubiša Simić.
A strong diplomatic presence, a warm atmosphere, and clear messages of cooperation and mutual respect made the reception in Bern more than a formal protocol event—serving as a powerful affirmation of the deep and multifaceted relations between the Republic of Serbia and the Swiss Confederation.
