Yesterday proved a standout day for Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin.
In the morning, he secured a historic election as President of the Confederation, winning 203 out of 210 votes. That's the strongest result ever recorded.
Then by mid-afternoon, Parmelin announced that the United States would immediately cut additional tariffs on Swiss goods from 39 to 15 percent, with the measure applied retroactively to mid-November – that aspect of the announcement was a pleasant surprise.
Commentators say it sets up Parmelin well for his presidency next year.
Thousands of Swiss nationals stuck in middle east
Anti-war demonstrators in Geneva
Parmelin signs EU deal
Parliament moves closer to end murder loophole
Water worker buried alive
Petition for quiet cars on trains
