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Swiss-United Kingdom relations refers to the current and historical bilateral relations between Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Contents
History
Switzerland and the UK have enjoyed close relations for a long time. Ever since the 18th century British politicians have made much of Switzerland's neutrality on the European continent and repeatedly took Switzerland's side when dealing with other European powers. Since 1900 the United Kingdom has maintained 12 consulates in Switzerland. Switzerland represented British interests in Germany, Japan, Italy and the Axis occupied and allied countries during World War II from 1941 to 1945.
During the Cold War Anglo-Swiss relations became even closer, and due to common interests there was cooperation on a number of issues. Both countries worked together to forestall European integration in the 1960s.
Contacts and relations between the two countries remain close to this day with the respective countries foreign ministers regularly meeting up to discuss issues of shared concern.
Economy
Switzerland has been a favourite destination for British tourists since the 19th century. The UK is the fourth most important market in the world for Swiss investors. Around 700 Swiss companies currently do business in the UK with the financial sector playing a large role in Anglo-Swiss economic relations.