Swiss president says his visit shows support for Bangladesh on Rohingya crisis

“Relations between our countries are good and they have a long tradition. And we are seeking to strengthen our bilateral relations,” he said after his talks with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday.

Berset said the meeting provided them with the opportunity to exchange ideas on areas where both countries see a “strong potential” for development of the relations: in trade, development cooperation, cultural exchanges and climate change.

“We must continue to work as partners in the negotiations, in the climate change, but also in all the areas where Bangladesh and Switzerland have a strong cooperation in multilateral institutions, in particular the UN.

“We appreciate Bangladesh’s efforts in further strengthening democracy and rule of law and we appreciate the challenges that go with it. I welcome the joint declaration between Bangladesh and Switzerland.

“It will help to further strengthen our relations,” added Berset on the maiden visit of any Swiss president to Bangladesh.

Rohingya crisis

He will visit Cox’s Bazar Tuesday.

The situation of the Rohingya refugees is of “great concern to my country,” the president said.

“Switzerland commends your government and the people of Bangladesh for the solidarity, assistance and protection offered to the Rohingyas,” he said, pledging additional 12 million francs for the Rohingya refugees.

Switzerland earlier pledged 8 million Swiss Francs at the Conference in Geneva in October for emergency humanitarian aid for the Myanmar refugees in Bangladesh.

Berset also commended the agreement on repatriation between Bangladesh and Myanmar as a “positive” step towards a solution to the current crisis.

But, he said it will be important that all returns are voluntary and safe, and carried out in dignity.

Growth and trade

He congratulated Bangladesh on its continually high rates of economic growth and achievements in poverty reduction.

“We also welcome efforts in improving the business climate, legal security and the need for a sustainable business environment, including respect for human rights,” the Swiss president said.

“Bilateral trade between our countries has almost doubled over the past seven years. It is my firm belief that the Swiss-Bangladeshi trade and investment will reach new heights in the future.”

Development cooperation

Switzerland is keen on continuing as a partner of the government of Bangladesh, the private sector and civil society organisations, he added.

A particular focus in the next couple of years will be on social inclusion, economic development, governance and safe migration.

“Switzerland values its long-standing friendship with Bangladesh,” the president said.

“We look forward to a continued partnership, based on mutual trust and a shared vision for the future,” Berset added.