SDC is part of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs. Its mandate is based on the Federal Law on International Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid of 19 March 1976, and on a federal decree of 24 March 1995 on cooperation with the countries of Eastern Europe. International cooperation is one of Switzerland's foreign policy instruments. SDC sees itself as a competence centre, which coordinates this cooperation with other federal offices, actors of civil society and the private sector. In carrying out its mandate, SDC acts as the public face of Switzerland in global development and transformation processes, at the centre of conflicts and at the scene of catastrophes.

In the changed world, SDC aims to confront the global tasks of the future and make a salient contribution so that:

• Men, women and children can live in peace, freedom, security and justice and enjoy a sense of well being.

• Future generations will be assured of access to resources sufficient for their development.

SDC is a value-oriented, forward-looking institution that is open to learning. It is committed to:

• Justice, solidarity, equity

• Trust, respect and participation

• Responsibility, commitment and competence

• Performance and cost-consciousness

Nepal is one of the priority countries for SDC. Swiss cooperation in Nepal evolved from modest beginning in the late fifties. At the beginning it was channeled through NGOs and multi-lateral agencies. Immediately after its foundation in 1961, SDC became active in Nepal through SATA, a joint venture with Helvetas.

As stated in the Swiss Cooperation Strategy for Nepal (2005-2008), the overall strategic objective is for disadvantaged groups to enhance their position in society through the exercise of their rights and improved capacity to claim a greater share of assets, influence and dignity.

The program consists of three inter-related components: Harmonized bi- and multi lateral framework; Livelihood and Inclusion; and Meaningful Dialogue and Conflict Transformation. It is active in Governance/peace promotion, Rural infrastructure, Vocational training and promotion of small enterprises, Sustainable management of natural resources, Health care and harmonization and coordination amongst donor countries and regional projects. TBSU in this context is one of the program in the rural infrastructure sector implemented by Helvetas.

For more information visit : SDC Nepal Home Page