In a festive culmination of a year-long celebration, the Swiss Ambassador to Egypt, Andreas Baum, hosted a grand ceremony to honor the 90th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Egypt. Held at the enchanting Dahab Island Palace, an exquisite site built in 1994 by Prince Naguib Hassan Abdallah, the event was a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations.
The origins of this bilateral relationship date back to the signing of the Friendship Treaty in 1934 and the inauguration of Switzerland’s first diplomatic presence in Cairo a year later. Over the past year, the Swiss Embassy has curated a rich tapestry of cultural and diplomatic engagements, ranging from art exhibitions and musical performances to film screenings and innovation forums. These events have underscored the robust and forward-thinking nature of Swiss-Egyptian relations.
The ceremony was attended by over 300 guests, including government officials, artists, business leaders, academics, and media representatives, reflecting a vibrant cultural exchange set against the picturesque backdrop of the Nile River. Ambassador Baum eloquently captured the spirit of the evening, stating, “This is not a breakup party. On the contrary, it’s more like renewing our vows.”
The year-long celebration, which began with an eco-friendly land art fresco by Saype near the Pyramids of Giza, showcased the diversity of the Swiss-Egyptian relationship, spanning culture, economic cooperation, archaeology, sustainability, and people-to-people connections.
From jazz festivals to chocolate workshops, the events highlighted what Ambassador Baum described as “a friendship built on shared values: trust, innovation, culture, respect, and a good sense of humor.” He emphasized the 90-year journey’s significance and the ongoing importance of this partnership in tackling global and regional challenges.
The ambassador praised the leadership and creativity of women central to organizing these celebrations, underscoring their vital role from artists to curators.
The closing event featured an immersive artistic program, including a stunning photography exhibition by acclaimed Swiss photographers Margo Veillon and Fred Boissonnas. Their black-and-white images of old Egypt offered an evocative visual narrative, blending Egyptian storytelling with Swiss artistry. Guests savored a culinary experience that harmoniously fused Swiss and Egyptian flavors, while dynamic projections illustrated the historical milestones of this enduring friendship.
As the 90th anniversary draws to a close, the Swiss Embassy in Egypt eagerly anticipates further strengthening this multifaceted partnership. Ambassador Baum’s reflections on Switzerland’s humanitarian values amidst current complexities reaffirm a shared hope for peace, dignity, and justice in the decades to come.
