The consul general of Switzerland in Karachi, Didier Boschung recently hosted a reception at the DHA Club to celebrate the 720th anniversary of the foundation of the Swiss Confederation.
In 1291, three men representing the Alpine states (called cantons) of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden swore an oath to pledge mutual assistance and to protect their traditional rights, self determination and their own legal system against the powerful Habsburg Empire. This year’s celebration was a very unique as the consulate organised a poster competition to celebrate the event.
The participants were talented young students of the University of Karachi and Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture. Twenty-one were on display at the reception venue that were admired and appreciated by the guests. Swiss musician Franz Keller, who plays the traditional Swiss instrument ‘Alphorn’, was also present and he impressed the gathering with his music.
A lucky draw was also held and seven lucky guests won an airline ticket to Switzerland, Rado and Tissot watches, a Victorinox cutlery set, an HP LCD monitor and two gift hampers. The Swiss companies operating in Pakistan and some local representatives and other organisations had put up their banners and stalls to participate in the celebration.
They included Al-Ameen Trading, Clariant Pakistan, Habib Bank AG Zürich, Hazari Impex, International Watch Company, Jofa International, MSC Agency Pakistan, Mushko Electronics, Nazer & Co, Novartis Pharma Pakistan, Roche Pakistan, SGS Pakistan, Speedy Automation, Swiss International Air Lines, The Legend and the Swiss Business Council. The Swiss consul general in his brief welcome address thanked the companies and guests for making the celebration a success.
