The decision by the agency responsible for promoting the country’s image abroad: “At this time, we do not feel it is appropriate to highlight Swiss characteristics such as punctuality and reliability.”

After the tragedy in Crans-Montana, Switzerland has decided to cancel some of the events planned in Milan and Cortina, on the sidelines of the Winter Olympics. The Swiss have decided to keep a low profile after criticism from Italy of the local authorities and justice system for the lack of safety checks at Le Constellation, the nightclub where six Italian youths, among others, died and others were hospitalized in serious condition.
“The context that has been created around Crans-Montana, the media coverage and the political dimension it has taken on, have prompted us to reevaluate everything and adjust the program,” Alexandre Edelmann, head of Presence Switzerland, the unit of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs responsible for promoting the country’s image abroad, explained on Swiss radio. “We have made three decisions. In particular, we decided to cancel two evenings of celebration that were to be hosted by Casa Svizzera in Milan, featuring electronic music and raclette, the so-called electroclette, which are inspired by a festival in Valais. The Gala delle Alpi, which was to be held on February 7 to celebrate Alpine culture and showcase typical local products, has also been canceled. Highlighting Swiss characteristics such as punctuality and reliability is counterproductive at this time.