National Day of Switzerland @ Makati Shangri-La
Grace Glory Go with H. E. Swiss Ambassador Andrea Reichlin
MANILA, Philippines - On Aug. 1, Switzerland celebrated the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1921. This year’s festivity was further marked by the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and the Philippines.
In recognition of the historic and close partnership, evidenced by multilateral cooperation and mutual trust, growing trade and rich people-to-people ties, various activities have been organized throughout the year in the Philippines and Switzerland.
The official celebration, to which the Embassy of Switzerland invited members of the Philippine government, diplomatic corps, representatives of the private sector and Swiss enterprises, as well as partners of civil society, took place in the Rizal Ballroom of the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.
H. E. Ambassador Andrea Reichlin’s speech was followed by a presentation of the Philippine-Swiss Business Council, highlighting the signed free-trade agreement between the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), to which Switzerland belongs, and the Philippines, as well as a live painting demonstration by internationally renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor, who has painted many Swiss subjects in his career. Delicious Swiss food and wine were served during the joyful occasion to celebrate Swiss-Filipino friendship. Photos by JOEY VIDUYA
