Political consultations between Kosovo’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora and Switzerland’s Federal Department of Foreign Affairs were held in Bern, focusing on bilateral relations, economic cooperation, regional security and Kosovo’s European and international integration.
The consultations were led by Kosovo’s Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Ilir Muçaj, and Switzerland’s Assistant State Secretary at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Pierre-Yves Fux.
The Kosovo delegation also included Ambassador Mentor Latifi, Kosovo’s ambassador to Switzerland; Valdrin Grainca, Acting Head of the Division for Europe and the European Union; senior official Fatmire Musliu; and Second Secretary Gjenis Haxhimehmeti.
During the talks, the two sides discussed the strong bilateral relationship between Kosovo and Switzerland and opportunities to further deepen political, economic and institutional cooperation. Particular attention was given to maintaining political dialogue, high-level exchanges and cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Muçaj expressed Kosovo’s appreciation for Switzerland’s continued support for the country’s development and international standing, as well as for its contribution to security through its participation in KFOR.
Economic cooperation and EFTA agreement
Economic issues were also high on the agenda, including opportunities to increase Swiss investment in Kosovo, expand bilateral trade and strengthen cooperation between businesses.
The delegations highlighted the importance of the Free Trade Agreement between Kosovo and the EFTA states, including Switzerland, which is scheduled to enter into force on October 1, 2026. The agreement was described as an important opportunity to further expand economic relations and create new opportunities for trade and investment.
The sides also discussed development cooperation and projects aimed at supporting Kosovo’s economic and institutional development.
Kosovo’s diaspora in Switzerland
Particular attention was given to Kosovo’s large diaspora community in Switzerland and its contribution to both countries.
The delegations discussed the diaspora’s role in strengthening social, economic and cultural ties between Kosovo and Switzerland, highlighting its importance as a bridge between the two societies.
The talks also covered developments in the Western Balkans, regional security and Kosovo’s European perspective.
At the multilateral level, the two sides discussed Kosovo’s efforts to join international organizations, including the Council of Europe, as well as opportunities for closer coordination with Switzerland.
The Kosovo delegation expressed its readiness to continue regular political consultations and follow up on the issues discussed, with the aim of further strengthening relations between Kosovo and Switzerland.
