Switzerland is well known as a protecting power, having used its embassies abroad to represent the interests of states hostile to each other since the Franco-Prussian War. In the Second World War Switzerland served as protecting power for 35 countries on both sides—its embassy in Washington represented Germany, Italy, Japan, and Vichy France. In many post-war conflicts, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Asia, the Middle East, and Serbia, Switzerland has provided a continuity of representation after formal relations were severed as a protecting power, facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid and conflict resolution.
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