Journey for peace: Dialogue with Russia instead of confrontation
(CH-S) The “Swiss Standpoint” supports the cause of a journey for peace. Only when dialogue with others is sought is there a chance for genuine understanding. Anyone who is interested in the offer below can contact the organiser directly.
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Europe is in one of its most dangerous phases since the end of the Cold War. The war in Ukraine has been going on for several years now, with no end in sight. On the contrary, arms deliveries, economic sanctions, information wars and mutual recriminations are further exacerbating tensions between East and West. Voices calling for moderation and dialogue are rare. Instead, there is the threat of a new Iron Curtain, accompanied by growing militarisation and the risk of a major European war.
Particularly in this situation, we need people who build bridges instead of walls. If you want peace with your neighbour, you must be prepared to listen to them – even if you do not share their views. Listening does not mean agreeing but wanting to understand. Only when you know the concerns, perceptions and fears of the other side can you find ways to achieve genuine understanding.
The “Eurasia Association” founded by Lucerne-based Vital Burger is therefore calling for a civil society peace initiative: a dialogue trip to the Russian Federation to seek dialogue with Russian thinkers, entrepreneurs and Swiss citizens on the ground. This trip is all about people-to-people diplomacy – encounters between individuals, beyond official channels and media headlines.
Dialogue trip to Moscow: 24–31 January 2026
Route: Zurich – Istanbul – Moscow and back
Duration: 7 days
During the trip, participants will meet well-known Russian and Swiss personalities in Moscow.
In addition to the talks, a symbolic act of friendship is planned: the distribution of Sbrinz cheese with warm Swiss milk on Red Square – as a sign of appreciation and openness between the two countries.
Another highlight is a visit to Ramon Schenk’s farm near Moscow, where participants will see how Swiss expertise and Russian agricultural tradition can work together.
The supporting programme also includes city tours and, on request, a visit to the legendary Bolshoi Theatre.
Why now?
Relations between Russia and the West are at a low point. Sanctions, media campaigns and mutual mistrust have poisoned the climate. Switzerland, once a symbol of neutrality and mediation, is in danger of losing its role as a bridge builder in the formation of geopolitical blocs.
This makes it even more important for citizens to take on this task – with openness, respect and a willingness to engage in dialogue. This trip is not a political statement, but an attempt to deepen understanding of Russian society. Because if you only hear one side, you end up understanding neither.
Practical information:
Cost: CHF 1850
Includes visa, flight from/to Zurich, accommodation with breakfast in a mid-range hotel, Moscow transport card, Swiss tour guide.
Registration:
info@eurasien.ch, telephone: +41 41 260 51 69
Supported by:
zeitpunkt.ch, globalbridge.ch, schweizer-standpunkt.ch, forumgeopolitica.com,
alpenparlament.ch, schweiz-russland.org (Swiss-Russian Society),
freie-meinung.ch (Citizens for Citizens)
Organiser:
Eurasia Association,
Gerliswilstrasse 69,
CH-6020 Emmenbrücke
Telephone: +41 41 260 51 69, www.eurasien.ch, info@eurasien.ch
The Eurasia Association has set itself the goal of promoting understanding between the peoples of the Eurasian continent. In times of growing division, the association brings people from East and West together to break down prejudices and strengthen the mutual exchange of views. Only those who know each other reasonably well can find peace with one another.