The delegations in Berlin, led by Mr Fasel and Dr von Geyr, discussed current international developments, with a particular focus on the situation in Iran and the Middle East as well as the war in Ukraine. Both delegations underlined the importance of close exchange between partner countries in the face of an increasingly complex global political environment and the need to adhere to a rules-based international order. The important role of Geneva as a host of multilateral organisations was also emphasised.The talks also included bilateral and cross-border issues such as expanding infrastructure for freight and passenger transport and Upper Rhine cross-border cooperation under the Franco-German-Swiss Intergovernmental Commission, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

With regard to relations between Switzerland and the EU, the Swiss delegation provided information on the consultation procedure opened by the Federal Council on 13 June 2025 on the new bilateral package. This step was welcomed by the German delegation, which also expressed its support for a stable and forward-looking partnership between Switzerland and the EU.

The meeting with Mr Semmler provided another opportunity to acknowledge the bilateral relations between Germany and Switzerland, Switzerland's relationship with the EU as well as to discuss the priorities of the Merz government.

The talks emphasised the special importance of Swiss-German relations, which are characterised by shared values and an extensive network of political, economic and social contacts. Germany is Switzerland's most important economic partner, with an annual trade volume of over CHF 100 billion.

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