Federal Council commemorates the end of the Second World War in Europe 70 years ago and appeals for peace
Bern, 08.05.2015 - On 8 and 9 May 2015, Switzerland and the international community will commemorate the end of the Second World War and the tyranny of National Socialism in Europe. Paying tribute to the tens of millions of victims of the bloodiest conflict in history – a war that threw the entire world into disarray – is of great importance to Switzerland. It joins in commemorating the invaluable contribution made by the people of the Allied nations and all the other countries that helped end the war, with a deep sense of gratitude.
The European peace order that was created in the post-war decades is today under threat. The Federal Council therefore calls for efforts to resolve conflicts by political means and on the basis of international law. It calls in particular on all OSCE participating states to ensure peace and security in Europe for future generations through dialogue and cooperation based on the Helsinki principles.
The Federal Council reaffirms Europe's humanitarian tradition – founded on tolerance, mutual respect and the protection of human rights – which makes peaceful coexistence in the future also possible. It condemns racism, hatred and any other acts that threaten these values. The solemn commemoration of the countless number of victims two generations ago obliges us today to resolutely prevent such crimes and to promptly settle existing hostilities in a spirit of reconciliation.
Address for enquiries
FDFA Communication
Federal Palace West Wing
CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
Twitter: @SwissMFA
Publisher
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html
