International Geneva: the Confederation and the Canton Geneva sign a memorandum of understanding

The overall aim of the memorandum is to improve host policy and to enhance the universal character of International Geneva. It also outlines the priority that the Federal Council gives to the development of International Geneva, as stated in the foreign policy strategy for the years 2012 to 2015. The memorandum of understanding also aims to provide a formal framework for the working of the GPC, to promote mutual understanding and trust and the exchange of information between authorities.

This meeting of the permanent joint group was the first to be attended by Federal Councillor Didier Burkhalter in his capacity as head of the FDFA. The Genevan authorities were represented by state councillors Isabel Rochat, head of the Department of Security, Police and the Environment and David Hiler, head of the Finance Department. After the GPC working meeting, Federal Councillor Burkhalter was welcomed by the entire Genevan Council of State. 

This meeting provided an opportunity to discuss subjects such as the role of International Geneva in Swiss foreign policy and future priorities and challenges facing International Geneva in an increasingly competitive environment. Other items included the renovation of the Palais des Nations and the buildings of other international organisations, security questions and the close co-operation between the Confederation and the Canton Geneva in hosting flagship institutions of global governance, notably in the field of environment. Other issues on the agenda were host policy and the modalities of GPC meetings.

The GPC was founded in 1995. The political section meets twice a year. The organisation holds up to four meetings a year. It is the centre of consultation and joint decision-making for the federal and cantonal host authorities as far as initiatives concerning International Geneva are concerned. It examines the priorities and strategies of International Geneva and analyses ways of strengthening its position as a centre of global governance. It consists of the head of the FDFA and representatives of the Genevan government. The City of Geneva also attends GPC meetings if the agenda is of particular interest to it.  

Address for enquiries:

Information FDFA
Bundeshaus West
CH-3003 Bern
Tel.: +41 58 462 31 53
Fax: +41 58 464 90 47
E-Mail: info@eda.admin.ch

Publisher:

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs