LUSDA members met Swiss Ambassador to Italy Monika Schmutz Kirgöz, in a thought-provoking and insipirig academic discussion. We express our thanks to Prof. Silvia Menegazzi, Ph.D. and to the Embassy for making it possible.

The Ambassador shared her insights into Switzerland's foreign policy, highlighting the nation's relationships with the European Union as well as its active role within the United Nations. Also very interesting was the discussion on Switzerland's historical position on neutrality, a principle that has defined and continues to shape its diplomatic engagements over the centuries.

A significant segment of our conversation was dedicated to the empowerment of women in diplomacy and international affairs. Ambassador Schmutz Kirgöz shared her experience, underlining the critical role of gender inclusion in shaping a more equitable and diverse diplomatic environment.

Discussions also touched on the bilateral relations between Italy and Switzerland, two neighboring countries that are bound by tight and regular political, economic, social, and cultural exchanges.