Study visit by a delegation from Nepal

Berne, 06.07.2007 - A delegation from Nepal has made a study visit to Switzerland at the invitation of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Representatives of the three main political parties in Nepal studied and discussed federalism issues and human rights in Bern, Fribourg and Geneva.

As part of its commitment to lasting peace and development, Switzerland supports Nepal in its efforts to hold free and fair elections for the formation of a constitutional assembly on 22 November 2007. The Nepalese parties agree that the new constitution should contain federal elements. This is why Switzerland's offer to explain its federal system, the mechanisms of distribution of power and the nature of state structures met with considerable interest. During its five-day study visit, the delegation had opportunities to hear the views of representatives of the administration and academics. There was also an exchange with representatives of the central government and the city and canton of Bern as well as a meeting with prominent persons such as Louise Arbour, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

This was not the first time that Switzerland has invited a Nepalese delegation to a study visit to Switzerland to familiarise themselves with Swiss experience in the fields of constitutionalism and federalism so that they can then analyse the situation in Nepal more effectively. The delegations usually consist of influential politicians, constitutional specialists and representatives of civil society.

At the end of the visit, guests and hosts agreed that it was a positive experience. The exchange was valuable and cooperation was strengthened. On this basis, Political Affairs Division IV Human Security and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation of the DFA will continue to be active in Nepal. Swiss activity for peace, human rights and development cooperation made a major contribution to the conclusion of the comprehensive peace agreement of 21 November 2006, which ended ten years of civil war.

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