Sustainable development and trade: The importance of multilateralism.

• Date: 01 October 2020
• Author: Parmelin, Guy

This year we are all celebrating both the 75th anniversary of the UN and the 25th anniversary of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The Charter of the United Nations was signed 1945 at the San Francisco Conference. Delegates from 50 states drafted it with the aim of maintaining peace, guaranteeing international security and promoting the development of friendly relations among nations.

It is important to emphasize that the principles on which the UN Charter is based coincide with Swiss values enshrined in the Federal Constitution. Switzerland has distinguished itself in particular in the promotion of international humanitarian law and human rights, as well as in fostering peace and sustainable development. Switzerland is also appreciated for its good offices and its role as mediator in difficult negotiations. As a member of the UN, we contribute to the resolution of global challenges, which is in the interest of both the Swiss people and the world population.

Multilateralism offers legitimacy to find global solutions

The progress made in several fields and the management of various crises over the last 75 years...