The tasks of the embassy
As the official representation of Switzerland, the embassy covers all matters concerning diplomatic relations between the two countries. It represents Swiss interests in the areas of political, economic and financial affairs, legal arrangements, science, education and culture.
The embassy supports cooperation between Switzerland and the host country. In this respect, close contact with the respective ministries of economic affairs is important. Bilateral meetings organised by the embassy are used to strengthen relations between Switzerland and the host country.
The embassy promotes the Swiss economy in the host country, Swiss exports and tourism. It establishes contacts with Swiss businesses and provides them with general information and legal advice concerning the economy of the host country. The embassy monitors the economic and political situation in the country and communicates developments that are of interest to Switzerland.
The embassy fosters collaboration in the areas of science, technology and education with the aim of strengthening cooperation between the two countries in terms of research and innovation. It promotes the exchange of ideas between scientific institutions and universities. It also supports Swiss students in the host country and tries to encourage qualified students from the host country to study in Switzerland.
In terms of culture, the embassy aims to promote mutual understanding in its work to implement Swiss cultural policy. It strengthens contacts with – and between – relevant cultural institutions of Switzerland and the host country, and also with artists, for example supporting Swiss artists who would like to show their work abroad. Events organised or supported by the embassy should highlight Switzerland's commitment to culture and help build bridges between different cultures.
With regard to the media, the embassy acts as an interface between the Swiss government and the official representations in the host country and the national and international media in the host country. It supports the work of journalists working for Swiss media.
Office of the Ambassador
The Ambassador of Switzerland represents the Swiss government in the United States.
Political and Legal Affairs
The mission of the Embassy of Switzerland’s Political and Legal Affairs Section is to defend and promote Switzerland’s interests in the United States.
Swiss Direct Investment in the United States
Switzerland and the United States are tightly connected through intensive cross-border investments. The United States is Switzerland's most important destination for foreign direct investment. With $352 billion in direct investments, Switzerland invests heavily in the United States, supports jobs, and invests in R&D.
Science Office
The Science Office at the Embassy of Switzerland in Washington D.C. aims to strengthen cooperation and bilateral relations in education, research and innovation between Switzerland and the United States of America.
Public Diplomacy and Media
Public Diplomacy and Media is responsible for reaching out to a wide range of audiences far beyond governmental decision-makers. These audiences include individuals and representatives of public and private institutions in fields such as academia, advocacy, the arts, business, culture, development, education, human rights, international cooperation, the media, or science.
Defense and Military
The Federal Department of Defense, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) is represented at the Embassy by two offices: The Office of the Defense, Military, Naval, and Air Attaché and the armasuisse Washington Office (AWO)
Former Cuban Interests Section
For Switzerland the role of protecting power is part of the traditional good offices it offers within the scope of a responsible foreign policy. With its long-standing Cuba-US mandate, Switzerland has also contributed to rapprochement between the two countries.