Press releases, 02.09.2021

The Technical Assistance Service, the predecessor of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), was established in 1961. Despite many challenges over the past 60 years, the SDC has made a significant contribution to sustainable development across a broad range of areas. To mark the anniversary, the SDC will organise a live event, with the participation of Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, which will present an overview of Switzerland's international cooperation activities.

The challenges have changed considerably over the past six decades. To meet them, the SDC, which is part of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), has continuously developed and adapted its strategies and instruments. Initially focused on building infrastructure, its activities are now inspired by the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which comprises economic, social and environmental aspects.

The SDC pursues a targeted and partnership-oriented policy, as set out in the International Cooperation Strategy 2021–2024. Its activities are primarily aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth, combating climate change, saving lives and alleviating suffering as well as promoting peace and the rule of law. International cooperation challenges are becoming increasingly complex. Poverty has become ever more multidimensional and, as the COVID-19 pandemic has shown, global challenges require global responses involving innovative partnerships. The SDC remains flexible and is adapting accordingly.

On 9 September 2021, the SDC will host an interactive online event from 1 to 3pm to present an overview of its activities, both at its head office in Bern and around the world, including in Mali, Nepal, North Macedonia and Peru. Participants are invited to take part in a panel discussion with Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the FDFA, and Patricia Danzi, director general of the SDC. Specialists deployed around the world will also be on hand to answer questions in real time.


Further information:

Instagram DEZA/DDC/DSC/SDC
International cooperation strategy 2021-2024
Program
Programa (es)
SDC website


Address for enquiries:

FDFA Communication
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CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
Tel. Communication service: +41 58 462 31 53
Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
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Twitter: @SwissMFA


Publisher:

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Last update 19.07.2023

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FDFA Communication

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Phone (for journalists only):
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