On Sunday 10 June, Solar Impulse was at the heart of events organized by the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and the Swiss Embassy. The result was twofold, raising awareness of Switzerland’s presence in Morocco while also showcasing its commitment to sustainable development.

Since 2008, Switzerland has supported Morocco’s development in two domains: transit and migration on the one hand, and disaster risk reduction on the other. Given that the issue of climate change and the prevention of risks is one of Switzerland’s two priorities in Morocco, it was only logical that the Swiss Embassy dedicate a day of events in the HB-SIA’s hangar.

Switzerland’s support of Morocco’s commitment to sustainable development and renewable energies is apparent. As a first step to better educate the population on issues of environmental preservation, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) is working closely with the government as well as with local associations and schools to effectively and efficiently reach populations most vulnerable to the effects of climate change and natural disasters.

An exposition hall with games and informational materials was setup at the entrance of Solar Impulse’s hangar at Rabat-Salé airport in cooperation with the Association des Enseignants des Sciences de la Vie et de la Terre (Teachers Association for Life Sciences and the Planet Earth). This is one of many activities SDC organizes in order to raise youth’s awareness about climate change and disaster risk reduction.

Switzerland plays an important role in the Solar Impulse project. In addition to proudly flying the Swiss Flag on the HB-SIA and having several Swiss companies as Partners of the project, the Confederation has provided valuable support to the project. Up to now, the hangars have been offered by the Federal Department of Defense and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs has provided crucial political and logistical support for this summer’s Crossing Frontiers Mission Flights.

Amidst an illuminated tent with the Swiss red and white colors, accompanied by traditional Swiss cheeses and dried meat, the entire Solar Impulse team was able to seize the moment and engaged in several dance moves under the majestic wings of HB-SIA.