On her visit to Qatar she said:
“Switzerland has a rich tradition of humanitarian aid and international co-operation. Our country’s engagement in these areas reflects not only its commitment to global well-being, but also its understanding of the interconnectedness of states in addressing pressing challenges.
“The Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation (SDC) has been at the forefront of international development co-operation and crisis response, whether natural disasters, conflicts or health emergencies.
“Since the foundation of the Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation (SDC) in 1961, international co-operation has been an integral part of Swiss foreign policy. During its 64 years of experience, the SDC has acquired valuable expertise both in the field, in regions such as Latin America, Central Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and in multilateral fora.
“This commitment to rapid and effective humanitarian response and development co-operation is reflected in Qatar’s own initiatives, which include substantial contributions to global relief efforts and active participation in international organisations. In these rapidly changing times, working in partnership within the development and humanitarian communities has become more important than ever.
“Knowledge sharing for example in the field of innovative finance tool for development as well as capacity building, where both countries learn from each other’s experiences, strengthens the partnership.
“Switzerland is very pleased that Qatar, through Qatar Charity, is the first Gulf country to join the ‘Grand Bargain’ in 2024. Launched during the World Humanitarian Summit in 2016, this initiative brings together some of the largest donors and humanitarian organisations committed to improving the effectiveness and efficiency of humanitarian action and getting more resources into the hands of people in need.
“There is a real opportunity to strengthen co-operation between Switzerland and Qatar in the fields of development co-operation and humanitarian aid and the achievements of the SDGs.
“I look forward to discussing with our Qatari partners how we can work together to support vulnerable populations and initiate innovative co-operation.”
- Ambassador Patricia Danzi has been Director-General of the Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation (SDC) since May 2020. Prior to her engagement with SDC, she spent 23 years with the International Red Cross, both in the field and at headquarters, and became Regional Director for Africa. Danzi studied in Lincoln, Nebraska and in Zurich and holds a master’s degree in agricultural economics, geography and environmental science. She undertook postgraduate work in development studies in Geneva. She speaks seven languages and is the mother of two adult sons.
