René Botzenhardt Appointed Honorary Consul of Switzerland

International banker and investment manager René Botzenhardt is the new Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Nova Scotia.

Members of the Consular Corps represent their country's interests in the province and promote a mutually beneficial relationship between their country and Nova Scotia.

"Honorary consuls play an important role in strengthening ties between Nova Scotia and our partners around the world," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "Mr. Botzenhardt's broad international experience in management, collaborative relationship building and consultation will be important assets in his role as Honorary Consul of Switzerland."

Nova Scotia has a trade relationship with Switzerland through the Canada-European Free Trade Association Free Trade Agreement. The province's relationship with Switzerland was solidified in the aftermath of the Swissair disaster in 1998, when Nova Scotians come together to help those affected by the tragedy.

"It is important for Switzerland to maintain a strong presence in Nova Scotia as we try to develop our cultural, economic and scientific ties with the province," said Beat Kaser, Consul General for Switzerland in Montréal. "Also, the post will provide support for the Swiss community in Nova Scotia."

Mr. Botzenhardt was born in Switzerland and has also worked in New York, Vancouver, and, since 2005, in Halifax. He is a chartered financial analyst, heading his company, Borden Street Financial Inc., which provides international financial consulting services.

"I am a proud Swiss-Canadian; I want to help my fellow Swiss here in Nova Scotia, and to forge relationships that will strengthen connections between the two countries I call home," said Mr. Botzenhardt.

An Honorary Consular Officer is a voluntary position. The appointment is for three years and is renewable. There are 30 members in the Consular Corps of Nova Scotia.