Author: switzerlandtimes.ch

The Swiss government has rejected the so-called “Compass” Initiative, which seeks to subject the planned package of agreements with the European Union to a mandatory vote of both the people and the cantons. The Federal Council ruled out the proposal this week and declined to offer a counter-project. Formally titled: For direct democracy and the competitiveness of our country—against Switzerland as a passive EU member, the initiative would enshrine in the constitution the principle that Switzerland may not hand over its jurisprudence to foreign authorities. Its backers—drawn largely from German-speaking business circles and from the PLR/FDP and the UDC/SVP—say this…

Chef Kriti Shetty turns flavour into feeling, weaving memory, culture, and emotion into every plate she creates. For Chef Kriti Shetty, food is more than sustenance—it’s a living language. Each ingredient carries history, each dish tells a story. In her kitchen, technique meets emotion, and precision becomes a form of expression. “Cooking is a dialogue,” she often says. “Every plate carries a memory, a piece of where you come from and what you feel.”  That belief defines her philosophy: food, when created with intention, can transcend boundaries. It can connect people who don’t share a language, evoke nostalgia in strangers,…

With snow reaching Switzerland’s plateau this week, some motorists may regret delaying the switch to winter tyres. The change need not wait for ice or flurries: the tyres are designed for cold conditions generally and work best when temperatures drop below 7°C. Calling them snow tyres is misleading. Switzerland sometimes sees weeks of sub-zero temperatures without a single snowflake. Waiting for the first snowfall, is a poor strategy. The consequences are well known. Summer tyres stiffen in cold weather, lengthening braking distances and reducing grip. It’s generally recommended to switch to winter tyres from October to Easter, regardless of the…

Pilatus, Switzerland’s aircraft manufacturer, has unexpectedly secured a full exemption from American import duties, reported SRF. The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, led by Guy Parmelin, confirmed to SRF that Washington has reactivated a long-standing aviation agreement dating from 1979, allowing the firm to ship its PC-12 and PC-24 models to the United States duty-free. Blick first reported the decision. The move gives the Nidwalden-based company a significant edge over other Swiss exporters, which continue to face tariffs even after recent reductions. Washington suspended the civil-aviation agreement in mid-2025 as part of Donald Trump’s tariff offensive. It has now reinstated…

Small businesses are constantly searching for ways to stand out, enhance brand recognition, and build stronger connections with their audiences. In a marketplace filled with competition, where customer attention is often fleeting, having a unique and powerful brand identity has never been more essential. Increasingly, apparel has become one of the most effective ways for small brands to deepen engagement and express their personality. Yet for many entrepreneurs, the process of creating custom merchandise has been too costly, too complicated, and too risky — until now. Local Threads has emerged as an accessible, design-led platform that empowers small businesses across…

American tariffs on Swiss exports, imposed by Donald Trump, will fall from 39% to 15% after a flying visit to Washington by Guy Parmelin, Switzerland’s economy minister, repprted RTS. The Federal Council announced on Friday that Bern and Washington had reached a non-legally binding declaration of intent. The deal does not fully restore the pre-tariff status quo, said Parmelin, but represents a significant improvement. Parmelin insisted that Switzerland had made no concessions affecting its neutrality or room for manoeuvre. Even so, Switzerland has pledged that Swiss firms will invest $200bn in the United States by the end of 2028. These…

When life takes an unexpected turn due to an accident, injury or negligence, finding the right legal partner matters more than ever. SilverOak Solicitors has established a strong reputation for supporting individuals across the UK, offering expert help in functions where it counts most. Understanding the Claim Whether the incident occurred at work, on the road, or in a public place, the consequences of an injury can be far‑reaching: physical pain, emotional distress, lost income, medical bills and more. For many people, the journey toward compensation feels complex and overwhelming. That’s why SilverOak Solicitors are here to provide guidance, support…

In the United Kingdom, housing disrepair is a serious and often under‑recognised problem. For many council or housing association tenants, persistent damp, mould, leaks, or structural issues severely affect their quality of life — and, alarmingly, their health. SilverOak Solicitors is stepping in as a powerful advocate for tenants dealing with these issues, offering access to justice and compensation through their dedicated Housing Disrepair team. What Is Housing Disrepair — and Why It Matters Housing disrepair refers to a property being in a state that is unsafe, unsanitary, or otherwise unfit for habitation. Under UK law, landlords — including social…

Perched high in the Western Ghats, Munnar stands as one of Kerala’s most enchanting hill stations. Known for its cool climate, lush valleys, and sweeping tea estates, the destination has long captured the hearts of travellers seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Yet beneath its postcard-perfect surface lies a landscape rich with history, biodiversity, and cultural warmth. Anyone journeying through munnar india soon realises that this beloved haven offers far more than scenic viewpoints; it presents a complete sensory experience shaped by mist, mountains, and timeless charm. A Scenic Tapestry of Hills and Valleys Munnar’s landscape is nothing short of breathtaking.…

Swiss motorists face another increase in car-insurance premiums next year. A survey by Comparis of 13 major insurers indicates that most intend to raise rates in 2026, citing higher repair costs, more expensive spare parts and a rise in weather-related damage. Several insurers—including Generali, Zurich Switzerland, Allianz, PostFinance, TCS and Bâloise—report an inflation in claims costs. Repairs have become markedly pricier as labour charges and component prices rise. Generali says it will need to adjust premiums next year to cover higher costs; Zurich also expects to raise tariffs. Insurers are mostly reluctant to say by how much premiums will go…