During her visit, Ms Riniker was received by President of the German Bundestag Julia Klöckner (CDU). In addition to discussing bilateral issues, Ms Riniker and Ms Klöckner talked about their experiences as female parliamentary speakers and about women’s participation in politics in general. The consultation on the package of agreements with the EU, launched on 13 June by the Federal Council, was an issue of particular interest to Ms Klöckner and others present, including Anton Hofreiter (Bündnis 90/Die Grünen), chair of the Bundestag’s Committee on European Union Affairs. Switzerland’s domestic political roadmap and the public debate on European policy were also discussed.
In light of current geopolitical tensions and ongoing security policy challenges, Ms Riniker held talks with key stakeholders in Germany’s security architecture. The focus was on Germany’s ‘watershed’ approach to security policy, Switzerland’s position on the re-export of war materiel, and current international developments. Special consideration was also given to the role of women in armed conflicts and peace processes. During the talks, Ms Riniker emphasised the importance of upholding international law when tackling global challenges.
Those present included Thomas Röwekamp (CDU), and chairman of Bundestag’s Defence Committee, Claudia Major, Senior Vice President for Transatlantic Security at the German Marshall Fund, and Eva Högl (SPD), the Bundestag’s former Parliamentary Commissioner for the Armed Forces.
Ms Riniker rounded off her visit by attending the summer reception at the Swiss embassy in Berlin as guest of honour. In anticipation of the upcoming UEFA European Women’s Championship, the event was dedicated to Swiss female athletes. The evening provided an opportunity to talk individually with numerous members of the Bundestag and other high-ranking guests.
Official photos with Julia Klöckner
Maja Riniker and Julia Klöckner
Thomas Röwekamp (CDU), chairman of Bundestag’s Defence Committee of the Bundestag
Maja Riniker with Ambassador Livia Leu and State Secretary Dörte Dinger
The President of the National Council with the Swiss athletes (front row, from left to right: Daphne Gautschi, Janina Egli, Michelle Gisin; back row, from left to right: Lea Schüpbach, Chantal Wick, Tabea Schmid, Kerstin Kündig, Manuela Brütsch, Mathilde Gremaud)