Heads of state celebrate 100 years since customs treaty

This year, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are celebrating 100 years since the customs treaty between the two countries was created. It was agreed on March 29, 1923. As part of the festivities, Liechtenstein’s government held an anniversary celebration on March 29 this year. Federal President Alain Berset and numerous other representatives of the Federal Council, cantons, and communities took part from Switzerland.

A press release from the Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA) quotes the speech given by Federal President Berset at the celebrations: “Even at the time of its creation, the customs treaty was a rejection of narrow vested interests.” He added that the creation of a joint economic area helped in part to establish the friendship between the countries that “has grown further over decades”, adding: “The effects of this go beyond the borders of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.” In the press release, the FDHA points to the close collaboration between the two countries in the UN and International Criminal Court, among other things.

Berset had already held an exchange with Hereditary Prince Alois of Liechtenstein before the celebrations. The talks between the Federal President and the heir to the throne and regent of the Principality of Liechtenstein touched on the challenges for Europe as a result of the war in Ukraine and the links between Switzerland and the EU, in particular. Furthermore, they also discussed their countries’ involvement on an international level. hs