Swiss President announces intention to resign by end of this year

Geneva, Feb 2 (KUNA) -- Swiss President Guy Parmelin announced on Friday his intention to resign from his post by December 31 next year, after nearly 11 years in the government. Parmelin, who also serves as Federal Councillor for Economic Affairs, Education and Research, said at a press conference in the capital, Bern, that “the passion for work is no longer what it was at the start.” He explained that his decision comes from a desire to make room for “dynamic new energies,” adding that “the presidency is highly interesting, but it has become burdensome to bear its responsibilities.” Parmelin is set to leave the government after a political career that included handling several economic files, including the conclusion of free trade agreements with India and the Mercosur countries. He joined the Federal Council in 2016, during which he headed the Departments of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport for the first three years, then became Federal Councillor for Economic Affairs, Education and Research in 2019, before serving as President of the Swiss Confederation in 2021 and 2026. (End) A.M.Kh./M.A.A.