Switzerland and Kenya have been fostering good relations for decades. Switzerland was one of the first countries to recognise Kenya’s independence in 1963. Since then countless numbers of Swiss have come to know and love the country.
In the 21st century our goal must be to broaden and deepen bilateral relations. The focus is increasingly shifting to cooperation at international level, trade, healthcare and cultural exchanges.
Back in the days when European countries were perpetually waging war against each other, Switzerland found itself in a difficult situation. This pattern of almost incessant warfare went on for centuries until the end of World War II and the foundation of today’s European Union.
Today Kenya finds itself in a comparably difficult regional environment. Switzerland’s strategy has always been to contribute actively to peace. Geneva especially has been a meeting place for peace talks for decades. President Uhuru Kenyatta has devoted much of his time to Somalia, travelling to Mogadishu and receiving his Somali counterpart. And now Kenya is also assisting South Sudan on its path to peace.
