FDFA

The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs is showcasing Switzerland's third national language to mark this year's Week of the Italian Language in the World. The FDFA's Italian speakers are leading the effort to raise awareness and understanding of the linguistic and cultural heritage of Italian-speaking Switzerland. We travel to Bern and Madrid to learn more.

Expo 2020 opens in Dubai on 1 October for six months. A strategic region, a pavilion with an ambitious design, and an opportunity to showcase Switzerland's openness to the world: Manuel Salchli, who has been appointed commissioner general of the Swiss Pavilion, explains the key points of the event, which runs until 31 March 2022.

The Taliban have taken power in Afghanistan and the situation is extremely tense. The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) provides the latest news on Afghanistan in this constantly updated news ticker.

On 15 September in Bern, the Swiss Democracy Foundation launched the Swiss Democracy Passport, a guide to democracy in Switzerland. The booklet was created with the support of the University of Bern and the FDFA, and includes a foreword by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis. Ambassador Corinne Cicero Bühler, head of the Directorate of International Law, took part in the official launch.

Data collection and the production of statistics have evolved in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced statisticians to adapt again and again in order to be able to develop reliable and realistic indicators on global trends and developments. How is the relationship between policymakers and statistical offices evolving?

On 5 September 2021 Switzerland and Australia celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations, as well as their enduring friendship. One of the oldest surviving civilisations in the world, cutting-edge Swiss technology, cultural exchanges, scientific cooperation, acclaimed wines, and a patch of the Australian natural world in Switzerland are the subject of six emblematic stories to mark the 60th anniversary of Swiss-Australian diplomatic relations.