Good evening!

 

It is an honor and pleasure to join you tonight for the American Swiss Foundation Alumni Dinner.

 

I am delighted to welcome so many distinguished alumni, young leaders, and friends — including our dear friend and former U.S. Ambassador Ed McMullen.

 

A special welcome and word of thanks as well to our keynote speaker this evening, Vice President Guy Parmelin.  Your leadership and enduring commitment to advancing Swiss prosperity and innovation exemplify the values this conference celebrates.

 

For more than eighty years, the American Swiss Foundation has built an extraordinary legacy — connecting leaders across government, business, academia, and the arts through shared experiences and lasting friendships.

 

This exchange continues to strengthen one of the most successful bilateral relationships in the world.

 

The United States and Switzerland share deep and enduring ties.

 

Following the 1850 Convention of Friendship, Commerce, and Extradition, our two nations formally established diplomatic relations in 1853 — a partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared values.

 

Today, we stand together as partners in advancing security and economic opportunity.

 

Beyond trade and commerce, we share a steadfast commitment to liberty, human dignity, and the rule of law.

 

To the Young Leaders participating this year — you are the future of this transatlantic partnership.

 

The connections you make this week will serve you—and both of our nations—for decades to come.

 

For generations, the American Swiss Foundation has strengthened the bonds between the United States and Switzerland — built on trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to prosperity.

 

Through the Young Leaders Conference, these connections have further deepened. This exchange reminds us that the relationship between the United States and Switzerland is not just about commerce or policy — it is about people. Together, we advance our shared values and affirm the principles of liberty and human dignity that unite us across the Atlantic. As we celebrate these ties tonight, we also look forward — to the next generation of leaders who will carry this partnership forward with wisdom, vision, and resolve.

 

Thank you for joining us this evening.  And thanks to the American Swiss Foundation and the Pictet Group for your generous hospitality.

 

As we look to the future, may the enduring friendship between the United States and Switzerland continue to grow and flourish.

 

Thank you!