On arrival in Rio de Janeiro on 29 April, Mr Caroni and his delegation, consisting of Council of State members Andrea Gmür-Schönenberger (The Centre, LU) and Mathias Zopfi (The Greens, GL), will attend the Web Summit Rio. This international event is aligned with the Road to Belém programme, an initiative ahead of COP30 that brings together key players from the Swiss network in Brazil, including the Swiss Embassy, consulates general and honorary consulates, Swissnex, Swiss Business Hub, Swiss Leading House St Gallen, Swisscam and the private sector. Its aim is to promote economic development and prosperity by identifying sustainable, shared and innovative solutions. On the sidelines of the Web Summit, the delegation will meet with the Mayor of Rio de Janeiro, Eduardo Paes.
The Swiss delegation will be received on 30 April in Rio de Janeiro by Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira. Discussions will focus on Brazil's position on the changing international order and the country's priorities during its BRICS presidency in 2025. The delegation will then travel to Brasília, where they will meet with President of the Federal Senate Davi Alcolumbre. There they will discuss the strengthening of bilateral and trade relations between Switzerland and Brazil, the next steps towards the conclusion of a free trade agreement between EFTA and Mercosur, and federalism.
In São Paulo, Mr Caroni will have an opportunity to learn about the activities of the Swiss Consulate General, which includes a Swiss Business Hub, a Swissnex outpost and a Switzerland Tourism office. He will also meet members of the Swiss community and hold discussions with Swiss business leaders.