A diplomatic visit to Vienna marked the beginning of the Swiss president’s foreign travels, underscoring the close ties between Switzerland and Austria. President Karin Keller-Sutter was received with military honors and described the meeting as a gathering “among friends.” Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen also highlighted the shared values and trust-based cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
The visit took place at a time of political uncertainty in Austria, following the recent parliamentary elections. The government is only temporarily in office, and the negotiations over a three-party coalition have unexpectedly failed. The EU-critical FPÖ, led by Herbert Kickl, is now a strong contender for the chancellorship.
Despite the unclear political landscape, Keller-Sutter expressed optimism that the strong bond between the two countries would remain unaffected. She emphasized that the connection between Switzerland and Austria is robust and independent of the respective political configurations.
A central theme of the visit was the European air defense system Sky Shield, a project in which both Switzerland and Austria are involved. While the outgoing government under Karl Nehammer defended the project as neutral, FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl announced that Austria would withdraw from the initiative in the event of a government takeover.
Keller-Sutter remained calm, stating that an Austrian withdrawal would have no direct consequences for Switzerland. It is in the security interest of Switzerland to cooperate with its neighbors, she said, adding that this would be done in line with Switzerland’s neutrality.
The discussions in Vienna also provided an opportunity to discuss the recent agreement between Switzerland and the European Commission. Austria has been a reliable supporter of Switzerland in Brussels, and President Van der Bellen expressed delight over the progress made.
“The EU needs Switzerland, and Switzerland needs the EU” he said.
The agreement, which includes a safeguard clause on migration, received understanding in Austria. Van der Bellen wished Switzerland success in the upcoming domestic process and offered advice on how to engage with Brussels – confidently and goal-oriented.
In Vienna, there is a sense of new beginnings: With the strengthened FPÖ and the successful SVP, the mentalities of the two Alpine countries are closer than they have been in a long time. Especially in issues of migration and dealing with Brussels bureaucracy, the two countries seem to be on the same wavelength.