From the Himalayas to the Alps
Summary
Nepal and Switzerland’s 70 years of diplomatic relations are reflected through decades of political, educational and development cooperation, including Nepal’s entry into the UN and WTO and Swiss support for bridges, refugees and rural development. The piece also recalls personal diplomatic encounters and argues that Nepal can learn from the Swiss model of peace, prosperity and small-state diplomacy.
Key Points
- Nepal and Switzerland are marking 70 years of diplomatic relations, highlighted by the visit of the President of the Swiss National Council.
- The article recalls key diplomatic milestones, including Switzerland’s UN membership and Nepal’s accession to the WTO.
- Swiss development cooperation has supported Nepal through refugee resettlement, woollen exports, cheese-making, hill development projects and 10,000 suspension bridges.
- The author argues that Nepal can draw lessons from Switzerland’s governance, diplomacy and development experience while following its own path.
