Quotes

“A triumph of art and science, a monument to work and diligence! The barrier which divided nations has fallen, the Swiss Alps have been breached. Countries have moved closer to each other, the world market is open.”

Swiss President Simeon Bavier, speaking at the inauguration of the Gotthard railway tunnel in 1882

“Today is an historic day for our country: the completion of the Gotthard Base Tunnel marks the end of a Herculean task.”

Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann at the opening of the Gotthard Base Tunnel on 1 June 2016

“The new tunnel is more than a transport route, more than a great engineering achievement. It is a symbol of openness and progress because we are connecting people from the North Sea to the Mediterranean.”

Federal Councillor Doris Leuthard

“At a time when some people want to build walls, Switzerland has dug a tunnel that sends an important message.”

Matteo Renzi, Italian Prime Minister

“A marvel of technology.”

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor

“Such constructions are built by people who are willing to travel down a long and arduous road. Political affinities play no part in this.”

Former Federal Councillor Adolf Ogi of the SVP – before hugging former Federal Councillor Moritz Leuenberger of the SP

“Here comes the national anthem. Now if only we knew the words!”

Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann