Switzerland has signed an accord with the Republic of Guinea aimed at improving the system of repatriation of asylum seekers.

Justice Minister Simonetta Sommaruga and Guinean Foreign Minister Edouard Gnakoye Lama signed the accord, one of the few struck with an African country.

The government said it was a “new type” of accord, one that was more collaborative and took a wider perspective on migration, including aide for repatriation and collaboration in combating human trafficking and open dialogue on migration.

Both parties’ interests were represented which should boost its application, it noted. Guinea committed to take back citizens who no longer have the right to reside in Switzerland.

To counter human trafficking, an information campaign on the risks involved in illegal migration is foreseen, as well as planning for consular staff.

During Sommaruga’s trip to the capital Conakry, she visited repatriated Guineans who had begun business activities through funding provided as part of their voluntary return to their country.

swissinfo.ch and agencies