The Ambassador of Switzerland to Solomon Islands, Her Excellency Barbara Anna Gonzenbach, presented her Letter of Credentials to the Acting Governor General, Hon. Patterson J. Oti, at Government House today, 20 August 2025.
In welcoming H.E. Gonzenbach, the Acting Governor General expressed gratitude for her commitment to fostering enduring friendship and cooperation between Solomon Islands and Switzerland, despite the vast geographical distance separating the two nations.
He emphasized that while the two countries are far apart, they are united by shared values of peace, the rule of law, and a strong belief in international cooperation.
“We hold that multilateralism remains the most effective way to address global challenges and to ensure that every voice—especially those of small states—is heard,” Hon. Oti remarked.
Hon. Oti also highlighted Solomon Islands’ appreciation of Geneva’s role as a global hub for dialogue and welcomed Switzerland’s generous offer to support the reopening of Solomon Islands’ Permanent Mission there.
“We look forward to engaging in constructive discussions to explore this opportunity further,” he added.
In her remarks, Ambassador Gonzenbach noted that Geneva, home to the second-largest United Nations headquarters is a vital center for international cooperation.
She acknowledged the challenges small states face in maintaining a presence there and reaffirmed Switzerland’s readiness to support Solomon Islands.
“We are therefore pleased to offer support to facilitate the reopening of a Permanent Mission of the Solomon Islands in Geneva, and I look forward to discussing this proposal with your government,” she said.
Ambassador Gonzenbach further highlighted Switzerland’s ongoing support to Solomon Islands through various initiatives. Most recently, Switzerland and The HALO Trust launched a joint initiative to address unexploded ordnance in the Pacific, including the creation of an Ammunition Field Guide to assist in safe identification and disposal.
“I look forward to working closely with your government to deepen our cooperation globally, regionally, and bilaterally,” she added.
Solomon Islands and Switzerland established diplomatic relations on 20 December 2007. Switzerland’s Embassy in Canberra, Australia, is accredited to Solomon Islands.
–MFAET PRESS
