“Yes, there are many problems. But there are also countless people, in Switzerland and around the world, who are addressing these issues. Therefore, we can look to the future with confidence,” Berset said in his four-minute radio and television speech, which was recorded at the National Museum in Zurich.
In crises like the corona pandemic and now the war in Europe, Switzerland has learned to stick together when it comes down to it. The country has learned “that the institutions are strong and carry us”. Berset specifically mentioned social services, health care and public finances.
Federal Constitution as Bringer of Peace
In this context, the new Federal President also pointed out the importance of the Federal Constitution of 1848. Switzerland owes it a life of security and prosperity. “We owe her our culture of dialogue.” Switzerland continues to build on this commitment today.
After the Sonderbund War, the victorious cantons would not simply have written a new constitution and imposed it on the defeated Catholic cantons. “No, they did it with them and created a sovereign state on par with the powers of Europe.”
In the National Museum you can see the challenges Switzerland faced and how it tackled them. “We value what unites us more than what divides us. And have strengthened the cohesion.”
Berset Federal President for the second time
He is of course aware that not all problems can be solved, Berset continues. But it’s about contributing to their solution. “Engagement means that we open up, that we don’t withdraw into ourselves. Because we know that sooner or later other people’s problems will become our own.”
At the end of his speech, the Federal President wished the entire population a happy New Year “with great joy, with curiosity, with shared experiences”.
The 50-year-old Freiburger Berset was elected federal president for the second time since 2018 by the federal parliament on December 7. However, with only 140 votes, the result was below average. Speaking to the United Federal Assembly after the election, Berset said he saw Switzerland facing major challenges – in the context of several crises. Thanks to her stability, she is well prepared. (SDA)
Source:Blick
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