Slovenia and Switzerland: Strong economic partners and good friends

“'I am delighted to host Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis in Slovenia. His return visit is a clear signal that relations between Slovenia and Switzerland are excellent – there are no outstanding issues between the two countries, and our dialogue is regular and clearly focused on the future,” emphasised Minister Fajon.

Economic cooperation is the cornerstone of bilateral relations between Slovenia and Switzerland

Switzerland is one of Slovenia's most important foreign trade partners and the third-largest investor in the Slovenian economy, confirming the high level of mutual trust between the two countries. While the pharmaceutical sector has long been seen as a symbol of successful cooperation, there are many other areas with untapped potential, including space technology, renewable energy sources, the circular economy, sustainable tourism and digitalisation.

Increased cooperation is also being seen in many other areas, including the economy, science and research, health, education and culture, with both countries emphasising the importance of innovation, sustainable development and long-term competitiveness. “Culture is an important aspect of bilateral relations. This week, Slovenia is hosting the Week of the Romansh Language, only the third time this event has taken place outside Switzerland. Slovenia is thus confirming its status as a country that recognises the importance of multilingualism and cultural diversity.”

The two countries cooperate very closely in the Alpine region, demonstrating that it is possible to successfully combine sustainable development, environmental protection and economic progress. This cooperation takes place within the framework of the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region, the Alpine Convention, and the Quadrilateral Group, which includes Slovenia, Switzerland, Austria and Liechtenstein.

Discussions also focused on current foreign policy issues and multilateral cooperation

Minister Fajon congratulated Minister Cassis on Switzerland's successful presidency of the UN Human Rights Council in 2025: “At a time of significant global challenges, Switzerland performed this task responsibly, in a spirit of cooperation and with a strong sense of responsibility.” She said that Slovenia had begun its third term on the Council this year, and expressed her appreciation for the exchange of experiences with partners such as Switzerland. She also expressed her gratitude for the excellent cooperation during Slovenia and Switzerland's joint membership of the UN Security Council in 2024. 

A large part of the ministers' discussions was devoted to the situation in the Western Balkans and EU enlargement. Minister Fajon reiterated that the region must not be left behind, emphasising that EU enlargement is both necessary and strategically important for Europe's future stability. Both parties agreed that the region requires increased political attention and a clear European perspective. They also discussed other current issues related to the changed security environment in Europe, including the war in Ukraine, peace efforts, and the situations in Gaza and Iran.

At the end of the meeting, Minister Fajon expressed her support for Switzerland's upcoming third OSCE chairmanship. “I am confident that Switzerland will perform this task excellently too, with a clear vision and an emphasis on dialogue – something Europe particularly needs today.”