On the 12th of November 2025, key stakeholders from both the private and public sectors came together in Bern to celebrate an important milestone: 100 years of trade relations between Estonia and Switzerland.

The event was opened by Ms. Liisa Pakosta, Estonian Minister of Digitalisation and Justice, followed by remarks from H.E. Sonja Hürlimann, representing the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.

A highlight of the evening was the symbolic handover of a copy of the original Trade Agreement signed a century ago – an agreement that was ahead of its time, covering Estonia, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Interestingly, the agreement was renewed on 12 November 1938, exactly the same date we gathered to honor this enduring partnership. Our Estonian Honorary Consul in Zurich and President of the Estonian Chamber of Commerce in Switzerland, Michael Reiss von Filski, reminded us of a fascinating detail: the first Estonian honorary consulate in Switzerland that was opened by Hans Hirter was located just 31 meters away from where we stood at Clé de Berne.

We extend heartfelt thanks to our Platinum and Gold members, as well as all companies and individuals who have contributed to building bridges over the past century.

Special recognition was given to Mr Martin Michelet, former Swiss Ambassador to Estonia, who received the Golden Medal of Appreciation for his tireless support during the Chamber’s founding. (Read also his interview). Additionally, Lorenz Furrer and furrerhugi. were awarded Honorary Membership for their strong representation of Estonia in Bern and their expertise in digital topics.

This evening reminded us that in times of geopolitical turbulence, it is more important than ever to cherish friendships and agreements that provide stability and mutual value. Estonia and Switzerland share common values – innovation, education and a commitment to justice and democracy. In 2022, then President Ignazio Cassis and Prime Minister Kaja Kallas reaffirmed their intention to deepen collaboration in digitalisation—a strategic priority for both nations (press release).

Together, we continue to explore agile governance models and future opportunities for cooperation. A big thank you to our partners: Estonian Embassy in Vienna, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia, Clé de Berne GmbH, Switzerland Global Enterprise, and EIS – Enterprise Estonia for making this commemorative event possible.

Thank you to everyone who joined us – and to those who sent warm greetings from afar. This celebration marked the first event in a series during the Estonian ICT & cyber delegation visit to Berne & Zurich on 12–14 Nov 2025.

Let’s keep building together—towards the next 100 years!