Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis and State Secretary Luca Beccari paid tribute to the diplomatic relations between Switzerland and San Marino and exchanged views on relations with the EU, and the neutrality practised by both countries. During the visit, an agreement on the exchange of young professionals was also signed in the presence of both countries’ delegations. The agreement facilitates international mobility for young professionals looking to boost their work-related skills and languages.

Talks also covered current geopolitical challenges, including transatlantic relations and the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East. Mr Cassis, head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), informed his counterpart about the multifaceted roles played by Switzerland in the international and multilateral arenas. In 2026, Switzerland will assume its third tenure as chair of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). San Marino is also a member of the OSCE. Mr Cassis reaffirmed Switzerland’s intention to actively promote peace and security in Europe while serving as OSCE chair.

On 1 October 2020, Mr Cassis was the first federal councillor to attend, in the capacity of official speaker, the investiture of the captains regent – San Marino’s two heads of state. Münchenwiler was chosen as the location for the return visit due to its symbolism, as it forms a Bernese exclave within the canton of Fribourg and therefore shares this feature with San Marino – an enclave within Italian territory. San Marino is still considered to be the oldest surviving republic in the world.

Address for enquiries:

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