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The Netherlands and France are annoyed that Switzerland refuses to give permission for the re-export of war material. The Swiss debate on the re-export of Swiss weapons is understandable, the ambassadors say in an interview with “NZZ am Sonntag”. “But we do not share the point of view,” says the Dutch representative in Switzerland, Hedda Samson.
European reserves are not endless. “It would be very helpful if the Swiss authorities explore all options to support Ukraine,” Samson said. EU countries are following the current debate in Parliament with great interest.”
Switzerland benefits greatly from the international legal system
French ambassador Frédéric Journès said nobody is asking Switzerland to deliver war material directly to Ukraine. “We understand that this is not compatible with neutrality. This concerns the re-export of Swiss arms and ammunition that are in the stocks of our European partners.” This is not just a token question or quantity.
Like the Netherlands, Switzerland, as a small country, benefits greatly from the international legal system. “We have to defend them,” Samson said. The war is far from over. “We can’t afford the luxury of just sitting this problem out.” In addition, countries that have not yet submitted a re-export application are said to be observing Switzerland’s behaviour. “That could affect whether these countries will buy Swiss weapons in the future.”
Switzerland takes in five or six times more refugees than France
Journès said Switzerland shouldn’t worry too much about his good offices. “Geneva with all its international organizations will continue to be an important place for negotiations. I can well imagine that Switzerland will host the negotiations in this conflict. Who ultimately mediates is another question.”
Admittedly, the admission of Ukrainian refugees gives Switzerland respect and admiration. “In relation to its population, Switzerland takes in five or six times as many people as France. That is generous,” said the French ambassador. “But that doesn’t make the other questions disappear.”
Germany had asked Switzerland to buy stored Leopard 2 main battle tanks, as announced on Friday. They are intended to replace tanks that Germany and other EU countries have supplied to Ukraine. The approval of parliament is required for a sale. Such a company never had a chance there. (SDA)
Source:Blick
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