Two members of parliament from Switzerland have filed an official complaint with the country’s attorney general, requesting an investigation into gifts that Swiss businessmen gave to American President Donald Trump. The case concerns luxury gifts offered during diplomatic contacts aimed at reducing tariffs that America imposes on Swiss products. In early November, a delegation of top businessmen from Switzerland traveled to the American capital for a meeting with Donald Trump. The purpose of the visit was to discuss the high tariffs of 39% that have been applied since August on Swiss products. The businessmen sought to persuade the American president to reduce these economic barriers that harm Swiss exports.
The luxury gifts from businessmen to Trump that sparked reactions
A Rolex table clock and a personalized gold bar appeared in the presidential office of the White House after the meeting. These items immediately attracted the attention of media outlets in both Switzerland and the United States. American journalism characterized the practice as “gold bar diplomacy,” expressing criticism of the method chosen by the Swiss businessmen. Ten days after the visit, Bern and Washington announced a joint statement of intent for a significant reduction in tariffs from 39% to 15%. The agreement was welcomed positively by Swiss employer associations, as it is expected to significantly benefit Swiss businesses and exports to the American market.
Legal concerns and corruption complaint
Green Party MPs Greta Gysin and Raphael Mahaim filed an official complaint with the Confederation’s attorney general on November 26. In their letter, they emphasize that what is at stake is:
- The credibility of Swiss institutions
- Respect for the rule of law
- Switzerland’s international reputation
The MPs invoke Article 322 of the penal code concerning corruption of foreign public officials, requesting an investigation for possible “unjustified advantage.”
Reactions and questions about transparency
The value of the gifts has not been officially disclosed, while information about their final destination remains incomplete. The Swiss Greens characterized the private visit of the businessmen as “democratically questionable,” expressing concerns about the lack of transparency in the process. Among the participants in the meeting were Rolex CEO Jean Frederic Dufour and MKS PAMP gold company head Marwan Shakarchi, as seen in photographs from the White House visit.
