FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel holds political consultations in Bern with Austria

In Bern, the delegations led by Mr Fasel and Mr Marschik discussed, in particular, the situation in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine and transatlantic relations. Both sides emphasised the importance of close exchanges between the partner countries in light of the increasingly complex global political environment, and reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based international order. They also discussed cooperation between Geneva and Vienna as international locations, their complementarity, and their vital role as central multilateral platforms.

Bilateral and cross-border issues were another key point of the talks, including the strategic partnership between Switzerland and Austria and their close ties in the fields of business, education and research. Transboundary cooperation was also discussed.

With regard to relations between Switzerland and the EU, the Swiss delegation reported on the current status of the bilateral package with the EU and emphasised the importance of this being dealt with swiftly by the Council of the European Union. The Austrian delegation expressed its support for a stable and forward-looking partnership between Switzerland and the EU.

The talks confirmed the special importance of relations between Switzerland and Austria. These are shaped by shared values, a dense network of political, economic and social contacts, and a long-standing tradition under which the first visit abroad by a new Swiss foreign minister or president of the Swiss Confederation is made to Austria.

As part of this tradition, the first trip of a Federal President leads to Vienna. Austria is Switzerland's tenth-largest trading partner, with an annual trade volume of CHF 17.2 billion.

Bilateral relations Switzerland-Austria

Address for enquiries:

FDFA Communication Bundeshaus West 3003 Bern +41 58 460 55 55 [email protected]