Good offices and economic agreements in the Russia-Switzerland summit

Guy Parmelin and Vladimir Putin discussed the development of bilateral relations, security issues in Europe and acting as a protecting power

Good offices and economic relations at the center of the meeting in Geneva with Russian President Vladimir Putin
On Wednesday, June 16, 2021, following the Geneva Summit, a Swiss delegation led by President of the Confederation Guy Parmelin met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his delegation.
The development of bilateral relations, questions concerning security in Europe and Switzerland’s good offices were the central topics of the meeting.

Switzerland’s bilateral meetings with the USA and Russia

Mutual respect and intensive exchange between Bern and Moscow

Both sides expressed their appreciation for the good relations between the two countries, which are characterized by mutual respect and are expressed in an intensive exchange that touches on numerous thematic areas.
Institutionalized contacts exist in the areas of economics, finance, research, foreign and security policy, human rights, customs and agriculture.
The President of the Swiss Confederation emphasized that Russia is one of the priority countries of Swiss foreign policy and pointed out the great potential in the intensification of economic exchanges.
One of the main topics was the security situation in Europe. President of the Confederation Guy Parmelin stated that Switzerland, like other states, is concerned about the deteriorating situation and the erosion of trust.

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Synergy for the Organization for Security and Cooperation

Cooperation in the Council of Europe and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), multilateral institutions in which Russia plays a central role, was also discussed.
Switzerland is committed to strengthening the OSCE, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025.
The President of the Swiss Confederation said that in the multilateral sphere, dialogue and cooperation are more important than ever.
Switzerland’s protective power mandates for Russia and Georgia are of particular importance in Swiss-Russian relations.

That isolated Russian flag on a remote peak of the Alps

Commitment in the Caucasus, Central Asia and Eastern Europe

The Swiss delegation emphasized its commitment to stability in the Caucasus, Central Asia and Eastern Europe. A stable foundation enables sustainable development.
In addition to the President of the Swiss Confederation, Guy Parmelin, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), and State Secretaries Marie-Gabrielle Ineichen-Fleisch (SECO) and Livia Leu (FDFA) also participated in the talks.
In addition to President Vladimir Putin, the Russian delegation also included Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

There is a customs memorandum of understanding between Russia and Switzerland