OSCE Summit must achieve concrete results - Swiss FM Micheline Calmy-Rey
ANA. July 12. KAZINFORM /Ilyas Omarov/ Switzerland has always occupied a special place in international relations. The Swiss Confederation has a long history of neutrality-it has not been in a state of war internationally since 1815-and did not join the United Nations until 2002. Switzerland is home to many international organizations, including the World Economic Forum, the International Olympic Committee, the United Nations Office at Geneva and others. Zürich and Geneva are the two global cities and economic centers.
The uniqueness of Switzerland, development of Kazakh-Swiss relations, Kazakhstan's chairmanship in the OSCE and other issues were discussed during the interview with Micheline Calmy-Rey, Federal Councillor of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.
What can you say about the cooperation between Astana and Bern?
Switzerland and Kazakhstan have a long history of relations, which have been actively developed since their establishment. Statistics shows that the volume of our mutual trade exceeds USD 11 billion. Besides, both states intend to boost economic cooperation.
At first glance it seems that Switzerland and Kazakhstan have nothing in common. But if one looks closely, he will find a lot of similarities. Both countries are multinational, landlocked and have very influential neighbors. Thus our states have to conduct a balanced, flexible foreign policy meeting interests of all ethnic groups.
Kazakhstan is a very important partner for Switzerland. We develop not only the economic and trade links, but also the political cooperation. This year Switzerland holds chairmanship in the Council of Europe, and Kazakhstan - in the OSCE.
Would you please comment on the initiative of Astana on convocation of the OSCE Summit?
I support the idea on holding the OSCE Summit, but this should be not limited to idle talks. It is necessary to achieve concrete results regarding the most urgent issues on the agenda. I think the Summit will add significance to the organization.
The key topics that should be discussed are security, environmental protection and humanitarian issues, including human rights and tolerance.
I have already discussed the idea of holding the OSCE Summit during my last year visit to Astana and this year in Bern. The two organizations - Council of Europe and OSCE - are dealing with similar issues and cover virtually the same geographic area.
Switzerland is a unique centuries-old confederation. What is the most valuable experience in establishing a confederal state?
The Swiss experience is that we have a developed direct democracy. It means that people are involved in decision-making through voting. Our policy is aimed at preserving a dialogue of cultures and civilizations.
Switzerland has long enjoyed the reputation as a host country for many banks. How does your country attract so big financial flows?
It happens due to the quality of financial service. We developed it over centuries. Another important aspect is the political stability in the state.
Today people talk much about the impact of religion on politics, dialogue and clash of civilizations...
Switzerland is a multinational state, which makes every effort to preserve the dialogue between cultures and religions. Our state serves a bridge between East and West. We always stand for peaceful solution of all problems without the use of weapons.
Did people criticize you wearing an Islamic head covering during your visit to Iran?
I respect the laws of any country I visit. When I arrived in Iran, I just observed these rules and wore a headscarf as well as human rights commissioners do while visiting Iran.
What are the qualities of a modern politician?
Being a politician is when you can work with the nation, parliament, public organizations, associations, take into account their opinions and make right decisions.