These guests are expected at the mourning ceremony

On Friday afternoon, Switzerland will mark a national day of mourning for the victims of the Crans-Montana fire disaster. A central commemorative event will be held in Martigny with representatives of the authorities from Switzerland and abroad as well as representatives of various religions.

The day is dedicated to the memory of the deceased, solidarity with the injured and sympathy for all those affected. Over 1000 guests are expected to attend the official ceremony in Martigny, including President Guy Parmelin, Federal Councillors Ignazio Cassis and Beat Jans and the entire Valais State Council. The program includes readings, symbolic gestures, music and speeches.

Representatives from 37 countries and the European Union have been invited to the event. By Wednesday, 30 countries had confirmed their participation. These include Italy with President Sergio Mattarella and France with President Emmanuel Macron. Some foreign guests are also taking part because their countries themselves have victims to mourn.

blue News has summarized the already known registrations in an overview. The list is not exhaustive and will be updated on an ongoing basis.

Parallel to the commemoration, investigations are underway in several countries. In Italy, the public prosecutor's office has opened an investigation after six young Italians were among the 40 people killed. In Belgium, the Brabant public prosecutor's office is investigating; a young person from there also lost his life. France, which lost eight citizens, has already initiated proceedings to provide support for the victims and their families.

Several cantons are holding their own commemorations. Several cantons have also announced that they will send one or two members of the cantonal government to Martigny for the official mourning ceremony. The list of cantonal representatives will also be updated during the course of the day.