Swiss Defence Minister: Continue of mission in Kosovo necessary

Martin Pfister: As long as tensions continue, commitment remains valid even for the fact that peace and stability in the Balkans are in the interest of Switzerland”

The defence minister supports the deployment of Swiss troops in the Balkans and explains how the Swiss Army benefits from this. On alert to the expected extension of the Swiss Parliament's Swiss mission to Kosovo, Defence Minister Martin Pfister has given an interview to CH media newspapers supporting the mission's continuation, writes albinfo.ch.ch.

The question of whether after 27 years of service, by the time Parliament is expected to approve another three years in June, can the mission's completion be seen on the horizon, Pfister answers: Unfortunately, not yet. Especially in northern Kosovo, events like those on Pentecost 2023 (In Banjska) the situation in this part of the country is fragile and, at times, tense. As long as tensions continue and international stability is needed, a commitment remains valid even because peace and stability in the Balkans are in Switzerland's interest.

The next question, alluding to the name “Vetevendosje” of the party leading the government, is whether KFOR in Kosovo continues to be desired

Our participation is highly valued on the ground. My Kosovo counterpart, Ejup Macedonia, confirmed this during my visit last summer”, is the response of Minister Pfister.

The minister further talks about KFOR's current contribution to Kosovo. His “deployment has clearly contributed to progress. At the same time, the situation remains fragile. That is why KFOR's presence is essential. It helps prevent escalations that can spread throughout the region. It is also essential that KFOR be accepted by all sides. Our field teams, especially the liaison teams, maintain close contact with the main interested parties in the country. This provides a clear understanding of the situation and allows tensions to be defused early, sends albinfo.ch.

The Swiss mission in Kosovo costs the army about 50 million Swiss francs a year. Is the expense worth it? It's the next question.

Yes, this mission is an investment in our security. Persistence in Europe also affects Switzerland politically, economically, and socially. At the same time, our army benefits directly from decision - making. We gain valuable experience under real - life conditions, for example, in using new technologies as drones. These knowledge is directly involved in further development of our abilities. Another aspect is cooperation with partners. Our soldiers train with other armed forces and apply joint procedures. This experience strengthens our defenses in a very tangible way.

The question of whether Switzerland, with its mission, is facilitating the armed forces of other countries elsewhere and thus violating the principle of its neutrality, the minister responds negatively. No. As a UN-appointed mission, KFOR is first based on the fundamental agreement of the sides in the conflict. Second, Switzerland is exclusively committed to promoting peace; participation in combat operations to implement peace remains out of discussion”.