Good afternoon and welcome!

 

Before I begin, I’d like to recognize our dear friend and former U.S. Ambassador to Switzerland, Ed McMullen.

It’s wonderful to have you with us today!

 

Newt and I are delighted to host all of you in our home this afternoon as part of the American Swiss Foundation Young Leaders Conference.

 

It’s a privilege to welcome so many distinguished leaders who embody the spirit of partnership between our two great nations.

 

For more than 80 years, the American Swiss Foundation has fostered enduring friendships between American and Swiss leaders in government, business, academia, and beyond.

 

One of my predecessors, Ambassador Faith Whittlesey, reinvigorated the Foundation 35 years ago by creating the Young Leaders Conference. Under her guidance, the Young Leaders initiative grew into the flagship program it is today. Through this extraordinary program, participants gain a deeper appreciation for our nations’ shared values and build lasting relationships that strengthen our transatlantic partnership.

 

Our friendship with Switzerland is built on common values including freedom, innovation, and respect for the rule of law. We share a deep belief in liberty and in the power of dialogue.

 

These are precisely the qualities that have made the Young Leaders program so impactful across generations.

 

To this year’s Young Leaders — you are the next chapter of this remarkable story. The conversations you begin here in Switzerland will enrich both of our nations for years to come.

 

Thank you for being here this afternoon, for your friendship, and for your commitment to strengthening the bonds between the United States and Switzerland.

 

And now, please join me in celebrating the American Swiss Foundation and the enduring friendship between the United States and Switzerland.