Tokyo
Manuscrit, non publié à l’époque. Seul le prononcé fait foi. Les notes de travail ont été retirées.
Discours prononcé en anglais. Texte original, non traduit.
Ambassador,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for your warm welcome this evening at the Swiss residence in Tokyo.
I appreciate that you have accepted the invitation of Ambassador Paroz and his wife.
As President of the Swiss Confederation, I made my visit to Japan during my presidential year a priority. For many reasons.
The strength of the economic co-operation is an important element of our relations. As the sixth foreign private investor to Japan, Switzerland has to ensure a strong official presence. With a Swiss Business Hub, a Science and Technology Office and an Office of Switzerland Tourism, our Embassy in Japan reflects the importance of our economic relations.
I had an interesting exchange with representatives of the Swiss business community in Japan earlier this evening. We can all profit from the dynamism the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan is showing.
Japan and Switzerland also share many common interests in international affairs. The main objective of my visit was to hold political consultations with Prime Minister Abe. During our meeting on Thursday, we have noted our common interests. For a world free of the threat of nuclear weapons. And for the benefits of free trade for our economies and people.
Protectionism and unilateralism are not in the interest of Japan or Switzerland.
As societies, our two countries have important similarities. Switzerland and Japan both face the challenges of aging societies. I was also visiting Japan in my capacity of Health Minister. And I had yesterday and today interesting meetings with Minister of Health Kato.
Our two countries and societies have another important similarity: they both know how to value and preserve traditional culture and traditions while actively promoting progress and innovation. The yodl-jazz of Mrs. Keiko Ito was a precious symbol of this capacity, as well as of the friendly cultural relations between our two countries.
As I am also the Minister of Culture and a jazz aficionado, I am pleased to meet the important stakeholders at a cultural event.
In 2014, our two countries have celebrated 150 years of diplomatic relations. This commemoration has contributed to the deepening of the bilateral relations. Thanks also to special initiatives.
In Japan, the Japan-Switzerland Economic Council was created. A forum for the Japanese companies who are the main investors in Switzerland.
In Switzerland, the “Parliamentary Friendship League Switzerland Japan” was established. A delegation of the League visited Japan last year. I would like to thank the Japanese Parliament for its support.
Ladies and gentlemen,
This is the second Japan-Swiss Night. And I am sure there are many more to come. Because it is important we foster our relationship even further. And because it is a pleasure to do so in such a festive setting.
Enjoy the music. Enjoy the evening.
Thank you very much.