Diplomatic Delights: A Visit to the Embassy of Switzerland and Mali

On the second day of the International Leadership & Business Internship, the interns kicked off their day by having a session of group work. They were able to work on their template and begin putting their thoughts down on paper.

Next, the interns visited the embassies of Switzerland and Mali. As part of the program, a visit to the Embassies of Switzerland and Mali provides the interns an opportunity to not only take a deep dive into international relations but also to connect with global leaders.

At the Swiss Embassy, our interns received a fascinating presentation on Swiss politics, where they learned about how Switzerland’s history eventually led to their policy of neutrality.

Despite Switzerland’s neutrality, the United States and Switzerland have strong trade relations, with Switzerland being one of the US’s top foreign investors and large US companies holding their headquarters in Switzerland. They also learned about how this neutral stance has allowed Switzerland to act as a mediator in international conflicts, which has led to their reputation as the country that promotes peace through diplomatic negotiations.

Next, at the embassy of Mali, our interns continued their journey of cultural exploration, where they engaged in discussions with diplomats who eloquently conveyed Mali’s cultural diversity and economic aspirations. Viewing ancient artifacts and artworks provided a glimpse into Mali’s rich history and heritage. Insights gained from these interactions deepened interns’ understanding of Mali’s strategic importance in its region and its diplomatic engagements on the global level.

As their visit to the Swiss Embassy and the Embassy of Mali concluded, interns were left with a day filled with learning and inspiration, reminding them of the vital role that cultural differences play in global affairs, which all contribute to a more connected world.