The Austrian delegation comprised of Third President of the National Council, Anneliese Kitzmüller, August Wöginger (ÖVP), Andreas Schieder (SPÖ), Reinhard Eugen Bösch (FPÖ), Gerald Loacker (NEOS) and Wolfgang Zinggl (PILZ), was drawn from all parliamentary groups of the Austrian Parliament.
Mr de Buman and his Austrian counterpart emphasised the many similarities and points of common interest, and praised the excellent friendly relations between the two neighbouring countries. During the talks with the Austrian delegation, Ms Keller-Sutter underlined that further work needed to be done in terms of cross-border rail and road projects, and that the legal status of the airfield at St. Gallen-Altenrhein needed to be clarified. The Austrian delegation discussed a range of foreign policy issues with members of the National Council Foreign Affairs Committee. Both sides stressed their interest in a stable Europe and discussed the adequate inclusion of countries in the western Balkans and dealings with Russia and China. Mr Sobotka explained that protecting the EU’s external borders and tackling illegal migration and terrorism were among the priorities of Austria’s upcoming presidency of the EU Council.
Inter-neighbour themes Austria’s upcoming presidency of the EU Council were also among the topics discussed during the courtesy visit tot Federal Councillor Doris Leuthard. At a meeting with Federal Chancellor Walter Thurnherr the guests discussed the issue of direct democracy. Federal Chancellor Thurnherr explained the historical background, function and importance of direct democracy for Switzerland. He described it as a model well-suited to Switzerland, but also as a fragile instrument, which needs to be consciously nurtured. At the subsequent meeting with State Secretary Mario Gattiker the Austrian delegation were given an overview of the current migration situation in Switzerland and the revision to the Asylum Act, which was approved by Swiss voters in 2016. Both sides agreed that they each faced similar challenges and that there was a need to seek a common European solution on asylum.
The close relations between Austria and Switzerland can be seen in the many numerous visits that take place at all levels. Over 40,000 Austrian nationals live in Switzerland, and a further 8,000 cross the border every day to work. There are currently around 16,000 Swiss nationals living in Austria. The two countries are mutually important trading partners. Furthermore, relations between the two parliaments were institutionalised in 2005 with the creation of two standing delegations. The Austria-Swiss Parliamentary Group and the Delegation for Relations to the Austrian Parliament foster relations with neighbouring state and meet on a regular basis. Members of both delegations accompanied the visit of the Austrian National Council president to Switzerland.