Economic development takes centre stage at the International Cooperation Forum 2025 in Zurich

Each year, the IC Forum brings together international cooperation actors for two days, providing an opportunity to engage in in-depth dialogue on fundamental challenges and to discuss new approaches and innovative solutions for international development cooperation. This year's IC Forum will address the question of how Switzerland can help developing countries to realise their economic potential in a socially, environmentally and climate-friendly manner.

In addition to Mr Parmelin and Mr Cassis, ETH Zurich professor and astrophysicist Thomas Zurbuchen and the director-general of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will also share their ideas on innovation and multilateralism. The forum provides a platform for discussions and workshops on topics such as how the Swiss private sector can contribute to the reconstruction of Ukraine, sustainable financing solutions, sustainable trade, the influence of science on innovation markets, and intelligent urban development. The younger generation in particular is encouraged to join the debates.
 
Innovative ideas honoured: presentation of the Swiss IC Awards
Every year at the IC Forum, Swiss companies, SMEs and start-ups are honoured for their innovative solutions in the field of international cooperation. A panel of experts assesses the projects submitted and selects three winners. Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin will present each of them with their award.

The IC Forum is organised by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs. 

Further information:

IC Forum 2025 website

Address for enquiries:

State Secretariat for Economic Affairs
Lorenz Jakob, head of media and communication
Tel. +41 58 468 60 56
medien.cooperation@seco.admin.ch

FDFA Communication
Tel. +41 58 460 55 55
kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
Twitter: @SwissMFA

Publisher:

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs