Prior to attending the 51st annual session of the French-speaking Parliamentary Assembly (APF) in Yaoundé, the President of the National Council, Pierre-André Page (SVP, FR), visited the Central African Republic and Cameroon from 6 to 8 July. The trip focused on bilateral relations, Switzerland’s humanitarian cooperation, and discussions on the economy, development and parliamentary cooperation.

In the Central African Republic, Mr Page was received by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra and National Assembly President Simplice Mathieu Sarandji. He held further talks with Prime Minister Félix Moloua, Foreign Minister Sylvie Baïpo-Temon and Health Minister Pierre Somsé. The talks focused on the political and security situation in the Central African Republic, the role of the international community, and Switzerland’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian aid, healthcare and peacebuilding.

Mr Page also visited Switzerland’s humanitarian office in Bangui and the UN peacekeeping mission MINUSCA, which has been supporting the peace process, protecting the civilian population and helping to rebuild state structures since 2014. In addition, he held discussions with representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Special Criminal Court (Cour pénale spéciale). Finally, Mr Page visited Radio Ndeke Luka, which is supported by Swiss development cooperation and enables the population to access reliable, verified information even in remote regions.

In Cameroon, Mr Page was received by National Assembly President Théodore Datouo and attended the ceremonial closing sitting of the parliamentary session as guest of honour. During discussions with members of the Switzerland–Cameroon parliamentary friendship group, he reaffirmed the importance of parliamentary dialogue for deepening bilateral relations.

Another highlight of the visit was a tour of the Institut Agricole d’Obala, which trains agriculture and agrotechnology specialists in close cooperation with Swiss partners. Mr Page praised the institute’s contribution to vocational training and sustainable development. The bilateral programme concluded with discussions with representatives of the Swiss community, the Swiss business sector and partner organisations in Yaoundé.

Mr Page’s visit emphasised Switzerland’s commitment to peace, the rule of law and sustainable development, as well as the importance of parliamentary dialogue with African countries. Following the bilateral programme, he is attending the 51st annual session of the French-speaking Parliamentary Assembly (APF) in Yaoundé.

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