BERN, Switzerland, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Deglobalization is a selfish and potentially dangerous trend and the world must avoid taking the risk of pitting countries against each other, President of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis warned on Monday.
Talking to members of the Foreign Press Association in Switzerland and Liechtenstein (known by its French acronym APES) in Bern, Cassis stressed that even if interdependence might become a challenge when one of the links in the chain breaks, withdrawal should not be a solution.
"What differentiates us should not divide us. We must assume our responsibilities and act in a common and united manner to restore security and balance in Europe and in the world," he said.
The Swiss president told reporters that multilateral governance is essential for Switzerland and the world and "science diplomacy" could play a big role in invigorating multilateralism in light of the urgency and acceleration of the global challenges.
"Science is a foundation for policy, because science is a form of truth, and a solid basis for collaboration. The 21st century is the century of science diplomacy," he explained.
"Scientific advancement and the benefits that are to be drawn from it are key. Together we must capture, frame, and share them in an inclusive and equitable manner," he added.
As for the country's long tradition of political neutrality, Cassis elaborated that to be neutral does not mean to be indifferent or even less inactive, and neutrality imposes rights and duties, including that of committing to peace.
"Switzerland will sit on the United Nations Security Council next January. Lasting peace, protection of the civilian population and climate security are the themes that we are going to make resonate within this major body which represents the heart and the challenges of multilateralism," he said. ■
