PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA ARRIVES IN SWITZERLAND FOR STATE VISIT

Tuesday, 28 October 2025 | Bern, Switzerland -President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Switzerland this morning for a two-day State Visit at the invitation of Her Excellency President Karin Keller-Sutter of the Swiss Confederation.

The visit, which marks a significant step in strengthening South Africa–Switzerland relations, will focus on deepening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including arts and culture, heritage preservation, peace mediation, and youth skills development.

Tomorrow, 29 October 2025, President Ramaphosa and President Keller-Sutter will hold official talks covering a range of bilateral issues. The discussions are expected to include collaboration under South Africa’s G20 Presidency and new partnership opportunities between the two nations.

During the visit, two key agreements will be signed, one on Cooperation in the Fields of Arts, Culture and Heritage and a Letter of Intent on Cooperation in Peace Mediation and Democracy Resilience. These agreements will foster cultural exchange, promote peace-building initiatives, and strengthen both countries’ roles in multilateral organisations.

In a symbolic gesture of friendship and reconciliation, the Government of Switzerland will return a number of heritage artefacts belonging to the Nkuna Royal Family to South Africa. The repatriation forms part of a broader effort to restore African cultural heritage and strengthen historical ties.

On Thursday, 30 October 2025, Presidents Ramaphosa and Keller-Sutter will tour an industrial firm in eastern Switzerland and a leading vocational school that exemplifies the Swiss dual education model. The visit will highlight youth cooperation between the two countries, with a focus on building skills for the modern economy.

The vocational institution features apprenticeship and dual education programmes that integrate classroom learning with practical experience — an approach that South Africa has identified as a key model for addressing youth unemployment and developing technical skills.

President Ramaphosa is also scheduled to meet with Swiss business leaders to explore investment and trade opportunities, particularly in manufacturing, renewable energy, and innovation.

The State Visit underscores South Africa’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships that drive inclusive economic growth, promote cultural exchange, and enhance global peace and cooperation.