Secretary Blinken,

Administrator Power,

Excellencies,

I would like to thank Secretary Blinken and Administrator Power for convening this important meeting today, which allows us to reaffirm our commitment to supporting democratic openings.

Switzerland and the United States share a long history when it comes to democratic rights and freedoms.

From the 17th century to the present day, our countries have influenced each other. We are sister republics, as the American constitutionalists put it 250 years ago.

Excellencies,

Democracy brings substantial benefits for sustainable development and lasting peace. Switzerland's history bears witness to these positive consequences:

Our democratic institutions and processes have enabled us to navigate linguistic, religious and cultural diversity and find unity.

Today, only 30% of the global population lives in a democracy. Drawing from our own experience, strengthening democracy has become a key priority in our foreign policy.

I am pleased to announce that my Ministry is now developing its first "Democracy Guidelines".

These guidelines define the objectives of our efforts and detail the tools we will employ:

- One key tool is diplomacy: fostering bilateral and multilateral dialogue while engaging political actors as equal partners.

- Another tool is providing knowledge and financial support to strengthen the framework that sustains democracies, thereby starting with the universally recognized fundamental rights, essential for the dignity and freedom of individuals.

We are ready to provide swift and creative support wherever and whenever it is welcomed.

Switzerland fully supports the joint statement and looks forward to ongoing dialogue, aiming to expand the family by welcoming many more sisters.

Thank you.

Democracy Promotion: Supporting Democratic Openings with Diplomatic Instruments