NATO is set to open a liaison office in Geneva to bolster connections with international organizations based in the city, according to a newly signed agreement.
The Swiss government announced that the office will facilitate NATO’s engagement with both international and non-governmental organizations in Geneva.
The agreement, signed in Bern by Franz Perrez, Director General of the Directorate of International Law at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), and John Swords, Legal Adviser and Director of the NATO Office of Legal Affairs, outlines the legal status of the office.
“Following the establishment of offices in New York and Vienna, the alliance aims to enhance its relations with international entities in Geneva. This intent was announced in the summer of 2023, and Switzerland is supporting the office’s creation as the host state,” the statement said.
The agreement covers the legal status, privileges, and immunities of the liaison office, in accordance with Switzerland’s Host State Act.
The Swiss government noted that NATO’s request to open the liaison office was received in late 2023. After the Federal Council approved the initiative, the FDFA coordinated with NATO to finalize the necessary steps.
The Cantons of Geneva and Vaud were consulted, and the Federal Council gave its approval for the headquarters agreement on June 26, 2024.
Bern reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with NATO, including participation in military exercises, as part of its 2024-2027 foreign policy strategy, adopted on January 31, 2024.
Despite not being a member of the alliance or the European Union (EU), Switzerland supports the EU’s sanctions against Russia following the start of Russia’s military operation in Ukraine.
In response, Russia has classified Switzerland as an unfriendly state.
During a recent summit in Washington, NATO leaders committed to providing Ukraine with at least 40 billion euros in military aid over the next year to support its defense against Russia.
