Ignazio Cassis attending new mediation forum in Hong Kong on 30 May 2025

Press releases, 27.05.2025

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will be in Hong Kong on 30 May at the invitation of Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi. Mr Cassis, head of the FDFA, is to attend a mediation forum which will bring together some 60 countries. The event coincides with China's launch of the International Organization for Mediation.

At a meeting held in Beijing on 24 April 2025, Mr Wang informed Mr Cassis of China's initiative to establish a new International Organization for Mediation based in Hong Kong. In view of Switzerland's expertise and reputation in the field of good offices and mediation, China invited Switzerland to present its approach at a forum on mediation to be held in Hong Kong on 30 May. The forum will bring together representatives from some 60 countries and various international organisations.

The growing number of conflicts around the world highlight the importance of mediation and good offices as diplomatic instruments. Switzerland, which has recognised expertise in this area, has been carefully following global developments in international mediation. The International Organization for Mediation is an independent intergovernmental organisation dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation. Switzerland is not a signatory to the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation.

Talks with Wang Yi and Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

On the margins of the forum, another meeting is scheduled for Mr Cassis and Mr Wang to continue high-level talks between their two countries. This year marks the 75th anniversary of Swiss–Chinese relations. During his stay in Hong Kong, Mr Cassis will also hold talks with the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, John Lee.


Address for enquiries:

FDFA Communication Bundeshaus West 3003 Bern +41 58 460 55 55 kommunikation@eda.admin.ch