Welcome

Welcome Message by H.E. Dr. Andreas Baum

Dr. Andreas Baum Ambassador of Switzerland to Japan
Dr. Andreas Baum Ambassador of Switzerland to Japan © Ayako Suzuki

It is my pleasure to welcome you on the website of the Embassy of Switzerland in Japan.

The diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Japan date back to the signing of the Treaty of Friendship and Commerce between the Tokugawa Shogunate and a delegation of the Swiss Confederation, led by Aimé Humbert-Droz in 1864. The relations between our two countries have flourished ever since. They are characterized by strong economic ties, collaboration in the areas of science, technology and education, frequent high level visits and rich and diverse cultural exchanges. In 2014, Switzerland and Japan celebrated the 150 years anniversary of diplomatic relations. With more than 250 events taking place in Japan alone that year, the anniversary contributed to deepening our mutual ties in all fields. 

As the official representation of Switzerland, the Embassy covers all matters concerning diplomatic relations between the two countries. It represents Swiss interests in the areas of political, economic and financial affairs, legal arrangements, science, education, culture and tourism. 

Besides its classical sections dealing with the political, economic or cultural affairs, the Embassy also hosts a science and technology office, which is responsible for the promotion of scientific cooperation between the two countries. The Embassy also comprises a Swiss Business Hub, dedicated to export and investment promotion. Additionally, the Embassy hosts the Switzerland Tourism Japan office, whose primary mandate is to promote Switzerland in Japan as a destination for holidays, travel and congresses.

The objective of this website is to provide information on Embassy services and activities, including practical information regarding the bilateral relations. Swiss citizens living in Japan and foreigners seeking visas to Switzerland will also find specific information on the services offered by the Consular Section of the Embassy.

In addition, our website provides general information on the relations between Switzerland and Japan, as well as links to organizations promoting the cooperation between the two countries. Other pages include information on the Swiss authorities and bodies. These pages allow you to discover various aspects of Swiss institutions, its economy, its culture and its people. 

I hope that this portal will continue to help Swiss and Japanese citizens learn about our mutual relations and find the answers to their practical questions related to Embassy services and activities.

On a more personal note, I had the honor to start my mission here in Tokyo in October 2020, after postings in Berne, Ankara, Ottawa, New York, Abuja, Tel Aviv and New Dehli. It is for me a privilege to serve the interests of Switzerland in Japan – two long-standing and like-minded partners. I look forward to further strengthening our excellent bilateral relations.


Dr. Andreas Baum
Ambassador of Switzerland to Japan