Russia Welcomes Switzerland's Overture to Restore High-Level Talks
Lavrov expressed gratitude as he opened discussions with OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Ignazio Cassis and OSCE Secretary-General Feridun Sinirlioglu, stating: "We appreciate that, upon assuming the OSCE chairmanship, Switzerland, through you (OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Ignazio Cassis), has shown interest in resuming concrete diplomatic dialogue with the Russian Federation,"
The Russian foreign minister highlighted that Sinirlioglu's presence would bring substantive depth to deliberations in the Russian capital, which would "necessarily touch on global processes that negatively impact the OSCE."
Lavrov painted a dire picture of the security body, warning it has spiraled into a "profound crisis" and stands "close to the real threat of self-destruction."
"The reason is very simple," Lavrov expressed, citing most Western countries and their "departure" from principles enshrined in the Helsinki Final Act and the declarations adopted at OSCE summits "in subsequent years."
"Yesterday, we began a detailed, informal discussion on this pressing issue with everyone present. And I expect that we will continue it today in a formal setting," he added.
Cassis, who simultaneously serves as Switzerland's foreign minister, emphasized the significance of the Moscow mission, declaring the Swiss OSCE chairmanship aims to rebuild fractured communication channels with Russia.
"It's very important for us to be here, because the OSCE is your organization too. I don't want to repeat my country's position on the war in Ukraine — it's well-known — but I believe it's necessary to confirm that our organization's doors are open.
"Indeed, over the past three years, it's been impossible to establish dialogue due to the differences between various states. This is regrettable, and we want to make progress on this path," Cassis expressed.
Both Cassis and Sinirlioglu touched down in Moscow Thursday following a Kyiv visit earlier in the week, where they held meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
The Swiss foreign minister had previously disclosed plans to visit both Kyiv and Moscow, though details remained scarce.
"For the OSCE, which I have the honor of presiding over this year, Switzerland, under my leadership, has clearly articulated its priorities: The OSCE should refocus on its core tasks – protecting peace and security in Europe.
"To achieve this goal, we all need to be at the table, not just those who share my views. That is why I will soon be visiting Kyiv and Moscow," Cassis said, according to a transcript published by the Swiss government.
Switzerland took the helm of the OSCE chairmanship this year. Finland held the organization's leadership position in 2025.
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