Federal Councillor Simonetta Sommaruga met with Robert Habeck, the German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, in Davos on 22 May. They discussed the impact of the war in Ukraine on energy supply. Both countries are working to rapidly reduce their dependence on Russian gas and to advance decarbonisation. In order to better manage any shortages, they have agreed to start negotiations on a solidarity agreement for mutual support. The programme in Davos also included talks with Indonesian Energy Minister Arifin Tasrif and with Xie Zhenua, China's Special Envoy for Climate.
Federal Councillor Simonetta Sommaruga at the meeting with German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, Robert Habeck
© FDFA
© DETEC
© FDFA
The talks in Davos were dominated by the war in Ukraine and its impact on Europe. Federal Councillor Simonetta Sommaruga spoke with her German counterpart Robert Habeck about the measures the two countries have taken to reduce dependence on Russian gas and to create the necessary gas reserves. In order to strengthen the gas supply, Switzerland and Germany have agreed to quickly start negotiations on a solidarity agreement.
Measures to strengthen the electricity supply were also discussed. Due to the sharp rise in prices and electricity companies’ increased need for liquidity, the Federal Council has drawn up a rescue package. The German government also created a protective shield at the beginning of April. A secure electricity supply is vital for the population and the economy. Grid stability is critical in that respect. Federal Councillor Sommaruga showed what role Switzerland can play in this area. Close cooperation is in the interests of both countries, both in the electricity sector and in the gas sector. Economic Affairs Minister, Guy Parmelin, was also present at the meeting.
Meeting with the Indonesian Energy Minister
Federal Councillor Sommaruga met with Arifin Tasrif, the Indonesian Energy Minister, before the talks with Minister Habeck in Davos. They discussed the expansion of renewable energies. For example, Indonesia supports financially weak households so that they can install solar panels, and has launched a building programme. In the gas sector, Indonesia is an exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Meeting with China's Special Envoy for Climate
At the meeting with Xie Zhenhua, China's Special Envoy for Climate, the focus was on financing climate protection measures, as well as the damage caused by climate change, such as rising sea levels or the increased frequency of droughts.
