BERN, Feb 20 (KUNA) -- Swiss Assistant Foreign Minister for the Middle East and North Africa Monika Schmutz praised Thursday the State of Kuwait, describing it as "a beacon of progress and stability in the region." This came during a speech delivered by Schmutz at the reception held by the Kuwaiti Embassy in Switzerland on the celebrations of the 64th anniversary of independence and the 34th anniversary of Liberation Day.
"Kuwait's vibrant culture, dynamic society and steadfast commitment to peace and development inspire not only its people but also friends and partners around the world," said Schmutz.
The Swiss official expressed her pride in participating in Kuwait's national celebrations, lauding the distinguished bilateral relations between the two countries.
In turn, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Switzerland Zeyad Al-Mashaan hailed the historical relations between Kuwait and Switzerland, which will celebrate their sixtieth anniversary next year, stressing the compatibility of the two countries' approaches towards strengthening preventive diplomacy, supporting mediation and peaceful solutions to resolve disputes and conflicts.
The Ambassador also stressed the strength of the economic partnership between the two countries, crowned by the Kuwaiti Sovereign Fund's investments in Switzerland exceeding USD 15 billion, which reflects Kuwait's high confidence in the investment environment provided by the Swiss Confederation through a distinguished legal system and economic facilities for foreign investors.
The celebration witnessed a large participation of a group of officials, diplomats and prominent figures, including the Director General of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Patricia Danzi. (end) amk.aa