The federal government is paying most of the costs of last year’s summit between US President Joe Biden (79) and Russian ruler Vladimir Putin (70) in Geneva. Specifically, he pays compensation of more than four million francs. This was decided by the Bundesrat on Wednesday.
The state government explains that the reception of the two presidents for their first bilateral exchange was a success for Swiss diplomacy and its good offices. In addition, the presence of the two delegations offered the then incumbent Federal President Guy Parmelin (63) and Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis (61) the opportunity for bilateral talks.
The personal contribution covers 80 percent of the costs
The meeting on June 16, 2021 was an “extraordinary event” that strengthens Geneva’s position as a center of global governance and serves as a showcase for Switzerland.
Therefore, the federal government contributes to the costs of ensuring the safety of the participants in this gathering. The four million covers 80 percent of the costs that the canton of Geneva had to bear to implement the federal protection mandate. (SDA/sf)