The Swiss delegation at the official talks consisted of President Karin Keller-Sutter alongside Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA); Federal Councillor Beat Jans, head of the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP); and Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).

Both sides highlighted the deep connection between Switzerland and Kosovo, underpinned by a large diaspora community, extensive personal relationships, and shared democratic values. The free trade agreement between Kosovo and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), signed in Davos in January 2025, provides a solid foundation for expanding commercial ties. Both nations also acknowledged their longstanding and successful cooperation on migration and law enforcement.

The talks also covered Switzerland's cooperation programme for Kosovo, which supports democracy and peace, sustainable economic development, and projects addressing climate change, water and health. Switzerland's activities aim to establish European standards and contribute to normalising relations between Kosovo and Serbia.

Lasting peace in the region and a European future for Western Balkan nations remain key priorities for Switzerland. The Swiss delegation stressed the importance of dialogue regarding relations between Kosovo and Serbia and on minority rights. Additional topics regarding the Western Balkans included the significance of the international peacebuilding mission Kosovo Force (KFOR), in which Switzerland has participated with Swisscoy since 1999, and the objectives Switzerland hopes to achieve when it chairs the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in 2026.

The agenda also covered international matters including cooperation within the European Political Community, the war against Ukraine, and transatlantic relations. Switzerland and Kosovo stand firmly united in their support for a rules-based international system, which is essential for ensuring peace and prosperity.

On 22 May, the second day of the state visit will focus on business, education and innovation. President Keller-Sutter and President Osmani Sadriu will tour an industrial facility in eastern Switzerland. The programme also features a visit to a specialist centre at the University of St Gallen dedicated to advancing learning and teaching practices.

Switzerland was one of the first nations to recognise Kosovo as an independent state in 2008. The state visit by President Osmani Sadriu – the first by a Kosovar head of state to Switzerland – underscores the close and multifaceted relationship between the two countries.

Bilateral relations Switzerland–Kosovo

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