Minister Cassis,
Dear Chairperson-in-Office,
You assume the Chair of the OSCE at a time when the foundations of European security are under open strain, and when the value of this Organization is being tested in real time. That is precisely why Switzerland’s decision to place its Chairpersonship under the banner of dialogue, trust and security is both timely and necessary.
Norway strongly shares your emphasis on preserving the Helsinki spirit—grounded in the conviction that security must be built through dialogue, restraint and shared rules, even when trust is limited. In today’s security environment, this spirit is not a historical reference, but a practical guide for action.
Ukraine will remain at the centre of our collective responsibility. Norway fully supports Switzerland’s determination to keep Ukraine as the foremost priority of the Chairpersonship. As long as Russia’s war continues, the OSCE must support Ukraine in addressing the human, institutional and security consequences of the aggression.
Against this backdrop, we welcome Switzerland’s determination to pursue reform with restraint and purpose. By limiting priorities and aiming for depth rather than breadth, the Swiss Chairpersonship sets an important example at a time when collective discipline is essential to preserve the Organization’s credibility.
Preparedness will be equally important. If an opportunity for de-escalation emerges, the OSCE must be operationally ready to contribute—if asked. In this context, the Structured Dialogue remains a vital instrument for managing risks and preventing miscalculation, and we encourage the Chair to make full use of this platform.
Norway stands ready to work closely with you in the year ahead—as a constructive partner, and in the shared responsibility of keeping this Organization relevant when it is most needed.
Thank you.