At the invitation of Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis today attended this year's meeting of German-speaking foreign ministers in Salzburg, together with his counterparts Jean Asselborn from Luxembourg, Dominique Hasler from Liechtenstein and Annalena Baerbock from Germany.

The annual meeting reflects the close relations enjoyed by the German-speaking neighbours and centres on current political affairs. Russia's war against Ukraine, the humanitarian crisis it has triggered and the geopolitical repercussions were again at the centre of the discussions this year, and the five German-speaking countries underscored their like-minded stance.

Mr Cassis also used the talks to once again explain Switzerland's policy of neutrality, which does not prevent Switzerland from standing up for its values. He also highlighted Switzerland's efforts to strengthen compliance with international humanitarian law, citing as an example the meetings of government experts that Switzerland organises. These meetings enable states to exchange views on practical challenges related to compliance with international humanitarian law. One such meeting was organised by Switzerland at the beginning of the year in conjunction with the International Committee of the Red Cross on the topic of 'Environmental Protection in Armed Conflict'. The head of the FDFA also outlined Switzerland's priorities during its chairmanship of the UN Security Council, which begins next Monday.

Strengthening cohesion: Swiss–EU relations

The five foreign ministers discussed in particular the role of Europe and how cohesion on the continent could be strengthened, with Swiss–EU relations featuring as an important point in this respect. "As neighbours and a community of shared values, we all want the same for Europe: to restore or strengthen peace, stability, security and prosperity," said Cassis. He continued: "With that in mind, Switzerland and the EU should also find a solid basis for continuing their close relations," referring to the ongoing drafting of key parameters for a possible negotiating mandate with the EU.

In view of the migration flows along the Western Balkan route, the discussion on European cohesion also revolved around promoting close ties between the Western Balkans and the European community of states.

This year's meeting of German-speaking foreign ministers was rounded off by a look behind the scenes of the famous Salzburg Festival.

European cohesion at centre of this year's meeting of German-speaking foreign ministers in Salzburg