Swiss foreign minister makes first North Korea visit since 2003 as diplomatic office reopens

Switzerland has reopened its diplomatic office in North Korea, aiming to restore direct political dialogue amid rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis visited Pyongyang, meeting with North Korean officials to discuss security and diplomatic cooperation. The Swiss office, which resumed operations on October 19, will facilitate direct communication with North Korea and monitor regional developments. Cassis also visited Seoul, where South Korean officials expressed hope that the Swiss presence could aid engagement with the North. This diplomatic effort comes as military tensions escalate, with North Korea recently launching missiles.