Bern calls for end to violence in Thailand

Switzerland has called on all sides in the conflict in Thailand to avoid violence and resume dialogue.

In a statement, the foreign ministry said it deplored the circumstances that had led to “numerous deaths and injuries and to serious damage to property”.

“The political and social conflict that divides the country can only find a lasting solution at the political level and in the framework of the rule of law,” commented Swiss Foreign Minister Micheline Calmy-Rey.

Switzerland expressed its sympathy and support to Thailand in the current situation.

Thailand is not only home to the largest community of Swiss nationals in Asia but is also one of the most popular holiday destinations for the Swiss, the statement recalled.

Switzerland’s ambassador in Thailand, Christine Schraner Burgener, managed to return to provisional offices in Bangkok on Thursday after having had to leave because of the severity of the fighting.

She told German-language Swiss radio that the embassy was treating urgent cases and answering telephone calls around the clock.

Switzerland has warned people against making non-urgent trips to several areas of Bangkok.

swissinfo.ch and agencies