BY MARIA COMETTI
The word “splendid” and all its synonyms are not enough to describe Switzerland. This country’s enchanting beauty, awe-inspiring innovations and modernity as well as exquisite destinations spell perfection. Get to know more of Switzerland, a role model to the world.
Switzerland is a small country but it is known for its intense beauty, huge contribution in various fields, and big impact to the world. Reliability and superior quality are synonymous with Switzerland brands from pharmaceuticals and electro mechanical industries to luxury goods such as watches and chocolates. Saudi Arabia is the second largest export market for Switzerland in the Middle East. With a long history of bilateral relations – Saudi Arabia and Switzerland celebrated 60 years of their diplomatic relations last year – both countries continue to strengthen ties and discover further opportunities for cooperation.
Bilateral Relations
Though bilateral relations between Switzerland and Saudi Arabia can be traced back to the early 1800s, it was July 1956 when the Saudi Ambassador to Cairo conveyed to Swiss authorities the desire of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to establish diplomatic relations with the Swiss Confederation. In December 1957 the Swiss opened a legation in Jeddah which was later upgraded to an embassy in 1971.
The Swiss presence in the Kingdom has been mainly focused on economy. Swiss companies such as ABB, Schindler, Sulzer, and Nestle have a long presence in the Kingdom. The Free Trade Agreement between the European Free Trade Association and the Gulf Cooperation Council came into effect July 1, 2014 opening the doors for further economic collaboration.
Economy
According to the World Economic Forum Switzerland is considered as one of the best performing countries in terms of innovation and competitiveness, Switzerland is number one, ranking ahead of both the US and Singapore. Switzerland is the European nation that files the most patent applications in relation to the number of inhabitants, according to the European Patent Office.
The Swiss education and training system promotes both research universities and vocational training courses. In fact, two thirds of young people age 15-19, choose to enter dual professional training, in which regular work in a company is combined with attending courses in a vocational school. This apprenticeship facilitates youth assimilation into the job market. Switzerland has a very low rate of youth unemployment (3.3%) which can largely be attributed to the system of vocation training.
Swiss Culture
The Swiss culture is both diverse and cosmopolitan. Located in the heart of Europe, Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Unlike many other countries, the Swiss culture is not centralized and every city has a rich cultural life. The cultural fields actually employ more people than the banking and finance sectors combined.
Switzerland is also known for its stunning views and dramatic sceneries. Every place in every season has its own allure to residents and visitors alike. From train journeys to hiking trails to legendary lakes and mountains, Switzerland has a lot to offer. Here are some of the must-visit and must do sites and scenes in this beautiful country as suggested by the staff of the Swiss Embassy in Riyadh:
MUST-VISIT PLACES
- Lavaux Region, with its amazing views over Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps.
- Bern, the Swiss capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site offering more than six kilometers of arcades to stroll and shop.
- Engadin, home to the Rhaetian Railway whose breathtaking viaducts showcase Swiss engineering tradition.
- Zurich, Switzerland’s economic powerhouse and the place-to-be for nightlife and shopping
- Lugano Arte e Cultura, an architectonic showpiece and vibrant cultural hub
MUST-DO ACTIVITIES
- Relax in a luxury spa in the midst of the breathtaking Swiss nature.
- Explore the century-old tradition of Swiss luxury watches by visiting the annual watch fairs in Geneva or Basel or shopping around the watch boutiques in major cities.
- Visit one of the many open air music and film festivals.
- Attend Art Basel, the world’s premier modern and contemporary art show.
- Enjoy skiing, snow hiking, and other winter sports in one of Switzerland’s many alpine regions. Cap the night off with cheese fondue.
