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Switzerland adopts 2016-2019 foreign policy strategy

Xinhua, February 18, 2016 Adjust font size:

The Swiss government adopted on Wednesday its foreign policy priorities to be applied over the next three years, with four strategic directives at the forefront of the country's agenda.

"In these turbulent times in global politics, with its many and increasingly acute crises, the first foreign policy strategy for the 2012 to 2015 legislative period proved successful and contributed towards a coherent and credible foreign policy," the Swiss Federal Council announced in a statement.

"However, the new strategy also incorporates the progress made with the implementation of the previous strategy and introduces some shifts of emphasis. It also takes account of the changes in Switzerland's international environment and the new challenges being faced," it added.

The Swiss government explained that the consolidation of healthy relations with EU and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) states is essential to promote both prosperity and security while enhancing cooperation in a range of policy areas.

On account of the confederation not being an EU, NATO or G20 member, it will also seek to foster global partnerships by intensifying its network of relationships so as to safeguard its interests and resolve specific issues.

Priority will be also be given to Switzerland's peace and security commitments as the country's export-based economy largely depends on a stable environment and a just international order.

Sustainable development and prosperity will furthermore be encouraged, with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) becoming an integral part of the country's global cooperation efforts. Endit