State visit to Switzerland: 200,000 francs for the Macrons

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A state visit casts a long shadow: on Wednesday, French President Emmanuel Macron (45) and his wife Brigitte (70) will do the honors. The couple will be received in Bern by the full Federal Council led by Federal President Alain Berset (51).

Even though the visit is much less pompous than when Macron receives a state guest in the Palace of Versailles, the state visit also costs money for us. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not dare to give exact figures, but says: “A state visit usually costs between 150,000 and 200,000 francs.” The federal government covers these costs.

It can be assumed that the Macron visit will be more expensive. Finally, the security measures are currently somewhat greater. And inflation is likely to drive up costs even further. The flight visit is also not free for the host country France: for example, payment is made for the arrival and departure as well as for the overnight stay of the staff.

Own operating room in the plane

Macron and his entourage of about forty people will arrive by plane early on Wednesday afternoon. France typically relies on an Airbus A330 as its government aircraft. Inside, the aircraft has a room with bathroom, office and a boardroom for 12 people. There is even an operating room for medical emergencies on board.

The program is then packed: reception with military honors, official speeches and discussions. Berset and Macron invite you to a media conference in the early evening.

Finally, a gala dinner is planned in the evening. Rumor has it that it was a highlight for the Macron couple because they love good food. About 80 people have been invited to the table, in addition to the French and our federal council members, usually also the chairmen of the foreign policy committees of the National Council and the Council of States.

No Parmelin wine

However, the federal government is not visible on the menu at the eatery. When asked, it simply says: “The menu has been validated by the Federal President.” And further: “The federal government would like to reserve the discovery of the menu to guests.” Let’s hope that with so much secrecy, at least the kitchen staff knows what they are doing. At least: the wishes of state guests and food intolerances are taken into account.

However, the wine choice is no surprise: local wines are served. According to Federal Council circles, “99.9 percent” of this will not be wine from the wine clan of federal councilor Guy Parmelin (64). This at least prevents a state case if the Parmelin drops have corks.

Madame Macron will most likely stick to white wine. She prefers this one to the red one. But she never finishes the glass. The question remains how many half glasses there will be.

Increased protection for the French president

The second day of the visit focuses on research, innovation and education. So Macron visits Lausanne with Berset. You visit the archives of a pioneer of European unification. The distinguished visitor also graced the University of Lausanne with his presence before visiting CERN in Geneva.

As president of France, Macron is considered a “person protected by international law,” according to the Federal Police. He needs more protection. Responsibility for his safety and that of his delegation lies with the Swiss authorities.

The cantonal police of the cantons of Bern, Vaud and Geneva work together with the Federal Security Service to fulfill Swiss protection obligations. French security forces supplement the security system.

Source:Blick