Swiss envoy’s parting message to PH: Embrace diversity, build trust
By Andrea B. Ramos
Diversity as a value to embrace and not a challenge to overcome, said His Excellency Dr. Nicolas Brühl as he looks back on the diplomatic friendship of Switzerland and the Philippines in his final address as Swiss ambassador to the country.
Speaking at the Swiss National Day 2026, Ambassador Brühl in his speech anticipated the 70th anniversary of Switzerland and Philippines’ diplomatic relations next year — a milestone on the long-lasting ties between the countries.
Ambassador Brühl reiterated Switzerland’s history on valuing bridging cultures and people together: “In the Swiss experience, diversity is not a challenge that needs to be overcome, but a value and a strength to embrace.”
In today’s fragmented world, Brühl expressed that mutual trust is the most valuable resource — his time in the Philippines being a testament to the principle, where a space for dialogue despite the difference strengthened partnerships and mutual understanding.
Attesting to the principle of creating a space for dialogue, Brühl proudly mentioned that the sectoral dialogue partnership between Switzerland and the ASEAN is in its 10th year this year.
“Under the Philippine chairship of ASEAN, we share the aspiration for a region defined by peace, stability, and shared prosperity,” he said.
“Switzerland remains committed to supporting these goals through dialogue, cooperation, and respect for international law.”
With Switzerland being known for its commitment to innovation, the ambassador looked back on the Swiss Innovation Prize as a platform to highlight creative innovators in the Philippines where it has shown the potential of the two countries working together to solve shared conflicts.
“Seeing young innovators and entrepreneurs from our two countries come together has reinforced my belief that progress is strongest when it is built through cooperation.”
Ambassador Brühl ended his speech with a heartfelt message where the warmth and hospitality of Filipinos will be remembered even when he returns to Switzerland: “It has been a privilege to meet and get to know so many of you, and I am confident that the connections we have built will continue beyond my time here.”
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