The leadership congratulates Guy Parmelin on his election as President of the Swiss Confederation
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, sent a congratulatory cable to His Excellency Guy Parmelin on the occasion of his election as President of the Swiss Confederation, a move reflecting the depth of diplomatic ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Swiss Confederation. In his cable, the King expressed his sincerest congratulations and best wishes for success to His Excellency in his new presidential duties, and wished the friendly people of the Swiss Confederation further progress, prosperity, and growth.
In a related context, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques praised the distinguished bilateral relations that bind the two countries and the two friendly peoples, stressing the Kingdom’s continued keenness to strengthen and develop these relations in all fields, in a way that serves common interests and contributes to strengthening international peace and cooperation.
Crown Prince congratulates Swiss President
His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, also sent a similar congratulatory cable to His Excellency President Guy Parmelin on the occasion of his election as President of the Swiss Confederation. His Royal Highness expressed his sincere congratulations and best wishes for success to His Excellency and for further progress and prosperity to the friendly people of the Swiss Confederation, emphasizing the importance of the partnership between the two countries.
A long history of Saudi-Swiss relations
This congratulatory message comes within the framework of the historical and strong relations that bind the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Swiss Confederation, relations that extend over many decades and have been characterized by mutual respect and fruitful cooperation. Switzerland is considered an important partner for the Kingdom in Europe, where the two countries cooperate on numerous economic and political issues, in addition to coordinating their positions in international forums.
Relations between Riyadh and Bern are characterized by their strategic nature, particularly in the economic and investment sectors. Switzerland is a global financial center, while the Kingdom represents a significant economic force within the G20. Both countries also play a vital role in promoting regional and international stability. Swiss policy is known for its positive neutrality and its role in diplomatic mediation, which aligns with the Kingdom's efforts to establish peace and support political solutions to crises.
The presidential system in the Swiss Confederation
It is worth noting that the election of the President of the Swiss Confederation is conducted under a unique system. The Federal Assembly (parliament) elects the president from among the seven members of the Federal Council (government) for a one-year term. The presidency in Switzerland is considered "first among equals" (primus inter pares), as the president presides over government meetings and represents the state abroad, while retaining responsibility for their original ministry. This system reinforces the political stability and national consensus for which Switzerland is renowned.
