Switzerland and Colombia maintain close and wide-ranging relations. Switzerland is the fourth-largest foreign investor in Colombia. During the meeting, Cassis and Bula discussed ways to further strengthen economic cooperation and improve the framework conditions for trade and investment.
Cooperation in education, science and innovation was also discussed, particularly in dual-track vocational education and training, research funding and support for start-ups.
Swiss assistance following the earthquake in August 2026 was also discussed: Switzerland provided one million francs for emergency relief and reconstruction. It welcomes the Colombian government's efforts and reaffirms its willingness to continue supporting reconstruction on the basis of the announced reconstruction plan.
A long-standing partner in Colombian peace efforts
Another focus was the peace and security situation in Colombia. Switzerland has supported Colombian peace efforts for over 25 years, particularly the implementation of the 2016 agreement with the FARC-EP. Switzerland mediated in negotiations between the parties to the conflict. «Die Schweiz ist weiterhin bereit, ihre Expertise und Unterstützung für die Demobilisierung bewaffneter Gruppen und für nachhaltige Lösungen in den von Gewalt betroffenen Regionen einzubringen» (translation: "Switzerland remains ready to contribute its expertise and support for the demobilisation of armed groups and for sustainable solutions in the regions affected by violence"), said Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis.
The two foreign ministers also discussed regional developments, focusing in particular on the situation in Venezuela, Brazil, Cuba and Nicaragua.
Signing of a social security agreement
During this visit, Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula and Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider signed a social security agreement. It governs relations between Switzerland and Colombia in the area of old-age, survivors' and disability provision. It coordinates access to benefits and enables pensions to be paid abroad. It also promotes economic exchange between the two countries by facilitating the posting of staff to the other state. It also contains provisions on administrative cooperation and combating abuse. The agreement still requires approval by the parliaments of both states.
Return of cultural property
The head of the Federal Department of Home Affairs and the Colombian foreign minister also stated that they wish to expand bilateral cooperation in protecting cultural property and combating the illicit transfer of cultural property. Since the bilateral agreement on the import and return of cultural property entered into force in 2011, Switzerland has returned 19 cultural objects to Colombia. Further restitutions are forthcoming, including the voluntary return in November 2026 of around 30 archaeological objects owned by private individuals.