Source: SikhNet News
http://www.sikhnet.com/sikhnet/news.nsf/NewsArchive/3050587AFA6518ED872571EF006B87A5
On September 26, 2006 SikhNet News reported, "Gurdwara Sahib Switzerland was not built in few weeks, months or years. It has taken full one decade to come into existence (1996-2006). The Sikhs of Switzerland started this esteemed project in 1996 when they applied for permission to start construction of Gurdwara Sahib. The process of seeking permission took nearly two years. The foundation stone of Gurdwara Sahib was laid on 11th January 2001... The then mayor of Langenthal, Mr. Hans Jürg Käser (who is now one of the members of the Executives of State of Bern) was also present in that ceremony. This ceremony marked the beginning of improving brotherhood among Sikhs of Switzerland. The local media extensively covered this attractive ceremony... The official opening of this Gurdawara Sahib will be 23rd of September 2006... [Five hundred people are expected to attend the official opening, including local government authorities.]"