Business, innovation and sustainability: the International Cooperation Forum 2025 debates the future of international cooperation

"What is growth? What is sustainable?": This year's IC Forum examined how Switzerland can help developing and partner countries to realise their economic potential in a socially, environmentally and climate-friendly manner. Discussions centred around the key issues of innovation and sustainability. "I am convinced that supporting framework conditions and mutual investment is the best way to combat global poverty," Mr Parmelin said in his speech. "A country can only develop sustainably if businesses - and not just states – work together. "

During the thematic workshops, participants looked at economic development from a range of perspectives and in various contexts, highlighting the importance of local initiatives and public-private partnerships in supporting sustainable economic growth. The participants also noted that small and medium-sized enterprises promote economic growth and prosperity because they are perfectly adapted to their local markets.
 
Central role of the private sector and the Swiss financial sector

The central role of the Swiss private sector was also highlighted, in this case in relation to the reconstruction of Ukraine. Thanks to the private sector's expertise and innovative capacity, a sustainable economic recovery can be achieved in close cooperation with the public sector. "Our stability, innovative capacity and pragmatism are an advantage in a changing world," said Cassis.

The discussions also focused on the Swiss financial sector, which is on track to develop further sustainable financing solutions. Going forward, it is expected that multilateral development banks and private investors will cooperate more closely and pay greater attention to initiatives in the Global South.

Presentation of the IC Awards for innovation in IC

The forum also paid tribute to innovative business ideas in the field of international co-operation: 'EnergyHubs - MPowers Ventures' facilitates access to clean energy in Africa, 'Adaire Academy' supports technology talent in Africa, and 'Cotierra' empowers coffee farmers who practise sustainable agriculture. The IC Award 2025 was presented to the three companies by Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin.

The IC Forum was organised by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs. Switzerland's humanitarian aid will take centre stage at next year's IC Forum, which will be held in Geneva on 26 and 27 February 2026.

Further information:

IC Forum 2025 website

Address for enquiries:

FDFA Communication
Federal Palace West Wing
CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland
Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55
E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
Twitter: @SwissMFA

State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)
Lorenz Jakob, head of media and communication
Tel. +41 58 468 60 56
medien.cooperation@seco.admin.ch

Publisher:

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs