Van der Bellen described the visit of the Swiss Federal President as a beautiful tradition and an indication of the close and trusting relationship between the two countries. Berset was greeted with military honors in the courtyard.
According to a statement from the Federal Ministry of the Interior (EDI), during the exchange on relations between Switzerland and the EU, Berset underlined Switzerland’s desire to further develop the mutually beneficial partnership. The Bundesrat proposed a broad package approach to bring the concerns together.
Switzerland’s association with the European Horizon Europe and Erasmus+ programs is under consideration. On Friday, Berset acknowledged Austria’s commitment to finding a solution.
As reported by the Austrian news agency APA, Van der Bellen was clearly critical of EU policy towards Switzerland. “Personally, I find it intolerable that Switzerland, with the best universities in the world (…) is currently excluded from Horizon Europe, the research program of the European Union,” says Van der Bellen.
The research area is an example of how the EU also needs Switzerland. “Austria will do everything possible to improve the relationship between the EU and Switzerland at this level,” the long-time university professor promised. Berset was “satisfied” that Austria shares the Swiss position on Horizon Europe.
Also on the program were talks with Chancellor Karl Nehammer, in the presence of Alexander Schallenberg, Minister for European and International Affairs, and with the President of the National Council, Wolfgang Sobotka. In addition to relations between Switzerland and the EU, the Russian offensive war against Ukraine, migration issues and climate policy were also discussed.
(SDA)