[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 205 (Monday, November 29, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Pages S8777-S8778]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              SWITZERLAND

  Mr. KAINE. Madam President, I come to the floor today to talk about 
the unique partnership between the United States and Switzerland. I had 
the opportunity earlier this month to meet with President of 
Switzerland Guy Parmelin to discuss the U.S.-Switzerland partnership on 
apprenticeship and workforce training. Our meeting came on the heels of 
a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing considering the nomination 
of Scott Miller to be the Ambassador to Switzerland. My questioning of 
Mr. Miller covered many topics, to include the recent decision by the 
government of Switzerland and Swiss voters to purchase Lockheed Martin 
F-35s as their next-generation fighter jet.
  In the following weeks, I have received more information on the 
benefits of the F-35 and the incredible opportunity this security 
cooperation provides for both Switzerland and the United States. In 
fact, prior to making a selection, the Swiss Federal Council completed 
a comprehensive analysis and determined that the F-35 offered the 
highest benefit, at the lowest cost: $2 billion less than the next 
lowest bidder.
  In making their choice, the Government of Switzerland and Swiss 
voters clearly recognized the value of the F-35, as well as the 
superior capabilities the F-35 offers. The deal has my enthusiastic 
support, and I appreciate our continued partnership with the Swiss 
Government and the Swiss people.

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