Bern, 14 October 2022
FDFA State Secretary Livia Leu received Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Faruk Kaymakci on 14 October 2022 for political consultations. The talks focused on bilateral cooperation and economic relations, the impact of the war in Ukraine, migration issues and human rights.
Both delegations hailed the entry into force of the modernised free trade agreement between the countries of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and Turkey. This agreement has already stimulated trade and investment. Also discussed was Switzerland’s support for reinforcing the Turkish migration authorities’ capacity to host migrants. Turkey hosts the world’s largest refugee and migrant population. Regarding the war in Ukraine, Switzerland expressed its recognition of Turkey’s efforts in negotiating and implementing the grain initiative. At the meeting, the state secretary also stressed that, as a member of the Council of Europe, Turkey was obliged to respect the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights.
Furthermore, Switzerland outlined its preparations for its UN Security Council membership in 2023 and 2024.
Turkey is a priority country in the Federal Council’s foreign policy strategy 2020-23. The annual political consultations create a framework for taking stock of bilateral cooperation in areas such as security, migration and trade. They are also an opportunity for dialogue with Turkey on topics such as human rights, the rule of law and democracy.
Source – Swiss Government