Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana hosted granted an audience with the Swiss Ambassador H.E Natalie Kohli on Monday February 16, 2026. The aim of the audience was to finalize preparations ahead of the upcoming 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14). The meeting served as a critical touchpoint to align technical and logistical strategies before the global event kicks off in Yaoundé on March 26. Both officials reviewed the roadmap to ensure the capital is fully prepared to host the international trade community.
Addressing the practicalities of the visit, Ambassador Kohli confirmed that Switzerland is well ahead of schedule regarding its logistical footprint. She reassured the Minister that accommodation for the Swiss delegation has already been fully secured, emphasizing that all necessary arrangements were settled well in advance. This proactive approach highlights the efficiency and high level of organization the Swiss Confederation is bringing to the summit.
A major highlight of the audience was the announcement that the President of the Swiss Confederation will personally lead the delegation to Cameroon. This top-level participation is a significant diplomatic gesture, reflecting the deep importance Switzerland attaches to multilateral trade negotiations. It also serves as a testament to the strengthening bilateral ties between Bern and Yaounde, positioning the conference as a pivotal moment for both nations.
Beyond the main assembly, the Swiss delegation plans to maximize its presence through a series of high-level bilateral meetings with various Cameroonian sectoral ministers. Ambassador Kohli noted that the delegation is particularly eager to engage in discussions centered on the reform of the World Trade Organization. Switzerland joins a chorus of other nations expressing satisfaction that such a crucial dialogue on the future of global trade is taking place on African soil.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with the Ambassador expressing the Swiss delegation’s genuine enthusiasm for the Yaounde sessions. Switzerland has pledged its full support to ensure the success of the conference, viewing it as a landmark event for international cooperation. To maintain this momentum, both parties committed to a continuous flow of information and coordination in the final weeks leading up to the ministerial opening.
