Switzerland's future "is in Donald Trump's hands"

As August ¹ approaches, Switzerland is holding its breath: a trade agreement with the United States is slow to materialize, and a customs hammer blow could fall on Swiss exports. Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter spoke about this worrying uncertainty on RTS radio.

While the European Union and the United States reached an agreement on Monday, setting 15% tariffs on certain European exports, Switzerland remains in the dark. Back in April, US President Donald Trump announced the introduction of 31% tariffs on Swiss products. However, this measure has been suspended pending a bilateral agreement. A final decision is expected no later than August ¹ , the Swiss National Day.

In an interview on this occasion, Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter discussed the current status of the discussions. A joint declaration between Bern and Washington has been signed and approved by the Federal Council. The ball is now in the United States' court. "It is now in the hands of the United States, in the hands of President Donald Trump," said Karin Keller-Sutter.

She emphasized Switzerland's limited influence, as a "small country": "We are not a superpower. We have some economic power, but not political power. We have to live with it." She also warned against underestimating ourselves: "But we must not make ourselves smaller than we are."

The president also recalled her meeting with Donald Trump in April: "The meeting I had with him in April was very important. On the one hand, it opened the door for Guy Parmelin and myself to meet with the American Treasury Secretary, and, on the other hand, for the negotiations to be concluded."

It remains to be seen in the coming days whether this diplomatic engagement will bear fruit. A refusal as the national holiday approaches could dampen the mood. Until then, we'll have to wait.