Switzerland, a Permanent Observer to the Organization of American States (OAS), today deposited its instrument of accession to the Protocol to the Treaty Concerning the Permanent Neutrality and Operation of the Panama Canal during a ceremony held at the headquarters of the hemispheric institution in Washington, D.C.
OAS Secretary General Albert R. Ramdin said that Switzerland's accession reaffirms its commitment to peace, security, and the stability of international trade. "The permanent neutrality of the Panama Canal is a practical guarantee for the functioning of the global economy," Secretary General Ramdin said. He added, "The more countries that accede to this Protocol, the stronger the legal and political guarantees protecting the neutrality of the Panama Canal and the freedom of navigation for all humanity."
For his part, Switzerland's Permanent Observer to the OAS and Ambassador to the United States, Ralph Heckner, recalled that Switzerland is a neutral country and emphasized its full understanding of the importance of the permanent neutrality of the Panama Canal. "Defending this principle also means defending international law and freedom of navigation, values that are more relevant today than ever before," the Swiss diplomat said.
Panama's Permanent Representative to the OAS, Ana Delgado, said the Panama Canal is a heritage asset serving the world and a symbol of cooperation, prosperity, and peace among nations. "Each new accession strengthens the legal framework that protects the permanent neutrality of the Panama Canal and reaffirms the commitment of the international community to maintaining an interoceanic waterway dedicated to peace, cooperation, and understanding among nations," Ambassador Delgado added.
The Treaty Concerning the Permanent Neutrality and Operation of the Panama Canal, commonly known as the Neutrality Treaty, was signed at OAS headquarters on September 7, 1977, as part of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties between Panama and the United States. Switzerland is the 41st country to accede to the Protocol, including OAS member states and non-member states.
Reference: FNE-144963
