Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter has reaffirmed Switzerland’s support for Kosovo’s ambition to become a full member of the European Union, describing the EU as a shared ally of both countries. Speaking during the official visit of Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani to Switzerland, Keller-Sutter emphasized that Switzerland supports the EU integration aspirations of all Western Balkan countries.
She acknowledged the United States as one of Kosovo’s closest allies and said that U.S.-driven geopolitical shifts are posing new challenges globally.
“We also have a special relationship with the United States of America. Switzerland enjoys a deep and long-standing partnership with the U.S., and for Kosovo, the U.S. has been one of its closest allies. It provided irreplaceable support in Kosovo’s journey to independence and international recognition.”
According to Keller-Sutter, the current global geopolitical changes, partially driven by U.S. policies, are transforming the world order:
“The world is undergoing a profound restructuring. We don’t yet know what the new global balance will look like. But what we need more than ever is a commitment to a rules-based international order, to peace and security, to open markets, and to democratic values.”
She noted with pride that Switzerland was among the first countries to recognize Kosovo’s independence in 2008 and said it was a privilege to now welcome a head of state from Kosovo on a state visit:
“This visit is a testament to the flourishing relationship between Switzerland and Kosovo. It’s also an opportunity to highlight promising perspectives for continued exchange between our countries.”
Keller-Sutter gave special recognition to the over 160,000 people of Kosovar origin living in Switzerland, many of whom are second or third generation citizens:
“The first workers from Kosovo came to our country in the 1960s and 70s, contributing to Switzerland’s economic growth at the time through their work in industry, hospitality, and construction.”
She also recalled the more painful migration wave of the 1990s, when war forced many Kosovars to flee:
“During those dark days, Switzerland provided shelter and safety for tens of thousands of people. Since then, many of these families have put down new roots here and forged new paths for themselves.”
“Today, many second and third-generation Swiss citizens of Kosovar origin call Switzerland their home. They are part of the fabric of our society – whether as football stars, teachers, mechanics, managers, or politicians – they have helped shape our nation for decades. Their success stories are also Switzerland’s success stories.”
She highlighted the close ties between the two countries by pointing out that Kosovo’s current ambassador to Switzerland is, in fact, Swiss by origin:
“The history of migration from Kosovo to Switzerland is a story of integration and coexistence. And it is a story of solidarity with those seeking refuge.”
Referring to the war in Ukraine, Keller-Sutter warned against taking peace for granted:
“For more than three years, we’ve been witnessing war in Europe again – on European soil. Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine reminds us that peace and self-determination can never be taken for granted. They must be defended. Kosovars know very well what it means to rise up for freedom and self-determination.”
She reiterated Switzerland’s strong commitment to international law and the territorial integrity of states – whether in Ukraine or in Kosovo:
“Our country remains committed to peace and security in the Western Balkans. We are working to strengthen democratic structures and increase trust in the rule of law.”
Finally, she emphasized that both Kosovo and Switzerland are deeply committed to minority rights, which she said connects the two nations more than ever in today’s uncertain world.
