CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- The Swiss ambassador to the United States visited the University of Virginia Center for Politics on Wednesday to talk about global perspectives on democracy.

Ambassador Jacques Pitteloud said while Switzerland’s government is different than the United States, they share a similar background and democratic values.

He said with all the violence and unrest going on in the world, he is grateful for a strong partnership with the U.S.

"We will see the introduction of technology export controls, all the things that we thought belonged to a very dark past which was part of the Cold War. So, the relationship between countries that do share the same beliefs and the same values will be more important than ever," Pitteloud said.

The ambassador held a discussion with attendees and also participated in meetings at the UVA School of Engineering and CvilleBioHub.