Switzerland condemns the coup in Burkina Faso and suspends its direct aid to the government
Bern, 18.09.2015 - On 17 September 2015, Switzerland decided to suspend its direct aid to the government authorities of Burkina Faso. This support amounts to some CHF 11 million per year. However, it will continue to support local governments, private and civil society entities active in the transition process. Switzerland deplores the action taken by the presidential guard of Burkina Faso, which prevents progress towards political transition via peaceful presidential elections.
Switzerland condemns the detention of the interim president of Burkina Faso and ministers as hostages, carried out by the presidential guard (RSP). It urges all actors concerned to continue dialogue in order to avoid a spiral of violence. Switzerland welcomes the support of the African Union and the Economic Community of West Africa States for the efforts to gain the release of the hostages and to re-establish the transitional institutions. It advocates inclusive dialogue to enable the holding of peaceful and transparent presidential and legislative elections.
Swiss cooperation with local governments, private and civil society actors in Burkina Faso is being maintained. However, in view of the events of 16 September 2015, Switzerland has decided to suspend temporarily its direct aid to the self-proclaimed central government.
Switzerland has been active in Burkina Faso since 1974 and is one of the country's major partners. Its commitment to Burkina Faso amounts to CHF 29 million per year and is focused primarily on education, rural development, decentralisation, taxation and the fight against corruption.
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
Links
Publisher
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html
