Egypt and Switzerland marked a significant diplomatic milestone this week as the two nations celebrated 90 years of enduring friendship and cooperation. Culminating a year-long series of events, Swiss Ambassador to Egypt Andreas Baum hosted a grand closing ceremony at the picturesque Dahab Island Palace, highlighting nearly a century of strong bilateral relations since the signing of the 1934 Friendship Treaty.
A Hidden Gem for a Historic Celebration
Located on the serene banks of the Nile across from Maadi, the Dahab Island Palace—built in 1994 by Prince Naguib Hassan Abdallah—served as a symbolic venue for this landmark event. More than 300 dignitaries, including Egyptian officials, Swiss expatriates, cultural figures, business leaders, and media representatives, gathered to reflect on the deep-rooted and forward-looking partnership between the two countries.
“Renewing Our Vows,” Not Saying Goodbye
In a speech that blended diplomacy with warmth, Ambassador Baum said, “This is not a breakup party. On the contrary, it’s more like renewing our vows.” His remarks set the tone for an evening focused on celebrating shared values such as innovation, mutual respect, and cultural appreciation.
Over the past year, the Swiss Embassy in Cairo has hosted a variety of public events—from jazz festivals and chocolate-making workshops to archaeological exhibitions and innovation forums—highlighting the diverse dimensions of Swiss-Egyptian cooperation.
Culture and Connection at the Forefront
The final celebration was an immersive artistic experience. Guests were treated to a stunning photo exhibition by iconic Swiss photographers Margo Veillon and Fred Boissonnas, featuring rare black-and-white images capturing the essence of old Egypt through Swiss eyes. The event also featured dynamic visual projections tracing key milestones in the bilateral relationship over the past nine decades.
A culinary fusion of Swiss and Egyptian flavors delighted attendees, reinforcing the cultural harmony and creativity at the heart of the friendship.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Ambassador Baum praised the dedication and talent of the team behind the celebration—particularly spotlighting the leadership of women in roles ranging from event production to artistic direction. He also reaffirmed Switzerland’s humanitarian values and commitment to peace, dignity, and justice in the face of ongoing regional and global challenges.
