Canada–Switzerland relations
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Canada–Switzerland relations refers to the bilateral ties between Canada and the Swiss Confederation, based on diplomatic cooperation, economic and commercial exchanges, and shared values such as support for democracy, human rights, and the rules-based international order.[1] Switzerland maintains an embassy in Ottawa and consulates general in Montréal and Vancouver, while Canada has an embassy in Bern and a permanent mission to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations (UN) in Geneva.[1]
The two countries cooperate in areas including trade, science and technology, and international governance. Canada hosts a significant Swiss diaspora, and both nations work closely together in multilateral forums such as the WTO, the UN, La Francophonie, and other international organizations.[1]
History
[edit]In 1604, during the colonization of Canada, Swiss soldiers in the service of the French army arrived to the territory of New France.[2] Since the initial arrival, Canada has been a destination for Swiss emigrants. Switzerland's first honorary consulates in Canada were established in Montreal (1875), Toronto (1906), Vancouver and Winnipeg (1913). The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1945. In 1945, Switzerland opened a diplomatic legation in Ottawa and elevated it to an embassy in 1957. That same year, Canada upgraded its diplomatic legation in Bern to an embassy.[2]
Bilateral agreements
[edit]Both nations have signed several bilateral agreement such as a Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Reciprocal Establishment (1914); Air Transport Agreement (1976); Cinematographic and Audiovisual Relations Agreement (1988); Cooperation Agreement for the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy (1989); Mutual legal assistance treaty in criminal matters (1995); Social security convention, with arrangements with Quebec (1995); Extradition treaty (1996); and a Double taxation agreement (1998).[2]
Resident diplomatic missions
[edit]- Canada has an embassy in Bern.[3]
- Switzerland has an embassy in Ottawa and consulates-general in Montreal and Vancouver.[4]
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Embassy of Canada in Bern -
Embassy of Switzerland in Ottawa -
Consulate-General of Switzerland in Montreal
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See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b c "Canada-Switzerland relations". Government of Canada. 13 June 2024. Retrieved 18 July 2025.
- ^ a b c History of bilateral relations between Switzerland and Canada (in French)
- ^ Embassy of Canada in Bern
- ^ Embassy of Switzerland in Ottawa
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