Happy National Swiss Day: Message from Hafsa Shamsie, President Swiss Business Council-Pakistan

On this most auspicious and celebratory occasion of Swiss National Day, I have the distinct honour and privilege, as President of the Swiss Business Council in Pakistan, to extend my warmest greetings and most heartfelt felicitations to the people, the Government, and all friends of Switzerland, near and far.

This cherished day holds profound significance — not only as a celebration of Switzerland’s magnificent heritage, steadfast democratic values, and extraordinary achievements, but also as a moment to pause and reflect upon the deep-rooted friendship and ever-strengthening bilateral ties that bind Switzerland and Pakistan across the full spectrum of economic, cultural, and diplomatic life. Switzerland’s enduring legacy as a global beacon of innovation, precision, and excellence continues to serve as an inspiration to nations and peoples the world over.

It fills me with immense pride and admiration to witness the remarkable and growing contributions of Swiss companies operating across Pakistan. Their investments have not only catalysed economic growth and employment, but have also enriched our landscape through knowledge exchange, innovation, and meaningful technology transfer. In this regard, it is particularly noteworthy that, according to the Board of Investment, Switzerland has consistently ranked among the foremost foreign direct investors in Pakistan — a momentum that has been steadily building over the years and continues to reflect the confidence that Swiss enterprises place in Pakistan’s potential. Furthermore, bilateral trade between our two nations exceeded CHF 430 million during the same period, a compelling testament to the vibrancy, depth, and transformative potential of our economic partnership.

We are deeply and sincerely grateful for the outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment of His Excellency Mr. Georg Steiner, Ambassador of Switzerland to Pakistan, whose tireless dedication to advancing trade, investment, and economic cooperation has been an valuable cornerstone in the continual strengthening of our bilateral relations. His Excellency’s contribution to this relationship has left a lasting and distinguished impression.

As we mark this joyous occasion, I am proud to reaffirm the Swiss Business Council’s steadfast commitment to nurturing, deepening, and expanding Swiss-Pakistani relations through open dialogue, meaningful collaboration, and the creation of shared opportunities for sustainable and inclusive growth for both our nations.

On this occasion, I also wish to extend my most sincere and heartfelt appreciation to the Swiss community in Pakistan, our esteemed and valued members, and all our partners and stakeholders whose unwavering dedication and generous support continue to sustain and advance the mission of the Swiss Business Council. Your commitment remains, without doubt, the very foundation and cornerstone of our continued collective success.

On behalf of the Swiss Business Council, I wish the people of Switzerland and all who celebrate this wonderful occasion a joyous, peaceful, and memorable National Day.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026