Opinions & Interviews

Honorary consul in Switzerland: Belarus occupies a very important place in my life

GENEVA, 10 September (BelTA) - Belarus has become an important and close country to me, Hermann Alexander Beyeler, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Belarus in the Swiss Confederation, said in an interview with BelTA.

“When I became honorary consul of Belarus, I did not yet know that my ancestors had lived in Pinsk. That’s why I sometimes feel like my meeting with Belarus wasn’t really a coincidence,” Hermann Alexander Beyeler said. “Of course, my decision to take on the duties of honorary consul was based primarily on my attitude toward the country, my contacts with Belarusians, and my desire to develop relations between Belarus and Switzerland.”

“When this family history came to light later, Belarus became even closer to me. Over these seven years, it has come to occupy a very important place in my life. I remain Swiss, and I believe that this is precisely an advantage for my mission. I understand Switzerland well and I already know Belarus, its people, opportunities, and needs well enough,” he said.

He noted: “For me, the position of honorary consul has never been merely an honorary title. I am convinced that the results of such work should be tangible: a meeting that has taken place, a new medical project, assistance to a social institution, contacts between specialists from the two countries, support for athletes, or a cultural initiative.”

“Today I can say quite sincerely: Belarus has become a country very close to my heart,” he concluded.

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