House Speaker Théodore Datouo and Swiss Ambassador Natalie Kohli renewed parliamentary diplomacy during an audience on April 20, 2026 and expressed the commitment to deepen historic bilateral relations.
Relations between Cameroon and Switzerland, dating back to 1961 received a fresh boost following high-level talks at the National Assembly in Yaoundé. The meeting brought together House Speaker Théodore Datouo and Swiss Ambassador Natalie Kohli in what both parties described as a constructive and forward-looking exchange.
Granting audience to the Swiss diplomat at his cabinet, the Speaker welcomed her one and a half years into her diplomatic mission and acknowledged the steady evolution of cooperation between both nations. Ambassador Kohli, for her part, congratulated the Speaker on his election and commended the strength and consistency of bilateral ties.
Central to discussions was the recent Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two countries, aimed at supporting research and financing initiatives at the Institute of Agriculture of Obala in the Centre Region. Both officials emphasized the importance of scaling up such practical partnerships, particularly those with direct impact on local communities and sustainable development.
Beyond economic and technical cooperation, the talks explored the shared socio-cultural fabric of both nations. With their multicultural, multilingual, and multi-denominational identities, Cameroon and Switzerland were seen as natural partners in the exchange of governance practices, particularly within parliamentary frameworks. Strengthening collaboration between legislative institutions emerged as a key priority.
Both parties underscored the need to honour the legacy of Tilo Frey, the first woman elected to Switzerland’s National Council and a figure of Cameroonian descent. Her story was highlighted as a powerful bridge between the two nations and a source of inspiration for inclusive political representation.
Looking ahead, attention turned to the upcoming 51st Annual Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of La Francophonie, scheduled to take place in Yaoundé from July 7 to 12, 2026. Ambassador Kohli announced the participation of the Swiss National Council, with its delegation to be led by its President, Pierre-André Page. Their presence is expected to reinforce parliamentary diplomacy and deepen engagement with the Cameroon–Switzerland Parliamentary Friendship Group, led by Joshua Osih, who was also present during the discussions.
Claudette Chin
