The president of the Swiss Confederation meets the secretary general of the Council of Europe
Bern, 13.10.2025 — President of the Swiss Confederation Karin Keller-Sutter met with Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset today in Bern. Discussions focused on cooperation between Switzerland and the Council of Europe, particularly with regard to supporting democracy and peace initiatives in Ukraine.
During the meeting, Ms Keller-Sutter and Mr Berset reviewed cooperation between Switzerland and the Council of Europe. With regard to the situation in Ukraine, Ms Keller-Sutter highlighted Switzerland's diplomatic efforts to achieve a peaceful solution to the conflict. As part of its collaboration with the Council of Europe, Switzerland's participation in the Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine demonstrates its commitment to those affected by the war. Switzerland is also providing financial support for the 2023–2026 Council of Europe Action Plan for Ukraine, the Council's most important action plan.
The two parties also discussed the need to combat the erosion of democracy and to promote it. Switzerland supports the Council's Reykjavik Principles, which reaffirm and reinforce member states' fundamental commitments to democracy. It also supports the New Democratic Pact for Europe, initiated by the Secretary General.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss other global issues, such as artificial intelligence and strengthening multilateral cooperation.
Switzerland and the Council of Europe have enjoyed close ties for many years. Their relations cover institutional and financial matters, as well as topics relating to the role of the European Court of Human Rights in protecting fundamental rights across Europe.
During the visit, Mr Berset also met with Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Federal Chancellor Viktor Rossi, and President of the National Council Maja Riniker.
This was Mr Berset's first working visit to Switzerland since he took office as Secretary General of the Council of Europe in 2024.