Security in Europe and, in particular, Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine was a key topic of discussion. The parties exchanged views on the current state of affairs and discussed the situation heading into the high-level conference on peace in Ukraine, which Switzerland is hosting on the Bürgenstock. President Amherd acknowledged Germany's contribution during the preparatory phase of the conference. In view of the next Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC), which will take place in Berlin on 11 and 12 June, talks also addressed the reconstruction process.
On the bilateral level, Ms Amherd and Mr Schultz discussed the close relations and strong interdependencies between their respective countries, particularly in the border regions. The focus here was on the importance of the Rhine-Alpine rail freight corridor, cooperation on energy and climate protection as well as migration policy issues. Pan-European challenges and possible solutions were also discussed. Switzerland welcomes the agreement reached in February on the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum and, as a Schengen and Dublin member, will adopt key elements of the reform.
The ongoing negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union (EU) were also on the agenda. Ms Amherd explained the issues on which the negotiating delegations are seeking solutions with a view to stabilising and further enhancing the close relations between Switzerland and the EU and its member states. The confidence and support of the EU member states and especially of Switzerland’s neighbours is also important for success.
Other matters raised with Chancellor Scholz included the commitment of both countries to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and the situation in the Middle East. On Thursday, talks with President Steinmeier are set to cover cooperation between Switzerland and Germany in the UN and Switzerland's seat on the UN Security Council.
Further information:
Bilateral relations Switzerland – Germany
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