Foreign Minister Wadephul is travelling to Berne on 19 August 2026 for political talks. His visit will focus on the close bilateral relations between Germany and Switzerland, the security situation in Europe and support for Ukraine.

A close partnership and friendship

Germany and Switzerland are united by a close partnership based on intensive political, economic and societal ties. The cross-border cooperation, day-to-day contacts and large number of links between our two countries reflect a long-standing friendship at the heart of Europe.

In view of an increasingly tense international situation, this partnership is particularly important. Cyberattacks, hybrid threats, espionage, threats to the energy supply and trade routes, and the impact of climate change show clearly that security cannot be addressed solely at national level. Germany and Switzerland face common challenges, to which they are responding by working together as reliable partners.

During his visit, Foreign Minister Wadephul will attend the Swiss Ambassadors Conference, where he will speak with Swiss diplomats about how we can stand up together for stability and security in Europe and the world. In his speech, he will pay tribute to Switzerland as a globally minded country, an integral part of Europe and an outstanding diplomatic actor in the world. Germany welcomes Switzerland’s close cooperation with the European Union. The planned ratification of the package of agreements between Switzerland and the EU also sends an important message on Europe’s joint ability to act.

Greater support for Ukraine

The meeting with Swiss Foreign Minister Cassis is another important part of the visit. One topic on the agenda will be the impact of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia’s ongoing violation of international law has changed the very essence of the European security order. Security in Europe can currently only be ensured by countering the policy of aggression pursued by Russia.

Germany pays tribute to the fact that Switzerland supports the sanctions against Russia. International pressure on Russia must be maintained and further intensified. Only in this way can we collectively persuade Russia to take part in serious negotiations.

Until then, it is essential that Ukraine remains strong and able to act. Ukraine will only be able to preserve its sovereignty and create the basis for a free and peaceful future in Europe if it can defend itself effectively. Germany will therefore work together with its European partners to ensure that Ukraine continues to be supported with the necessary equipment, arms and funding.

All European countries should thus review which additional means of support for Ukraine can be mobilised, as security in Ukraine and Europe are inextricably linked.

Germany and Switzerland are united by shared values. Democracy, the rule of law and freedom form the foundations of our common responsibility for a secure and stable Europe.