Switzerland says no invitation issued to Austrian government

The Swiss authorities say they have not issued an invitation to members of the new Austrian government. The question was debated when the Swiss cabinet and the four main political parties met for one of their regular sessions of informal talks.

The Swiss authorities say they have not issued an invitation to members of the new Austrian government. The question was debated when the Swiss cabinet and the four main political parties met for one of their regular sessions of informal talks.

But ministers reiterated that they were prepared to meet Austrian leaders, despite international criticism of the coalition in Vienna.

Adalbert Durrer, president of the Christian Democrats, said the government was keen not to upset anybody and had to be critical of the views expressed by members of the Freedom Party.

On Thursday, Jewish leaders in Switzerland criticised the government for saying it was ready to receive Austria’s new chancellor or foreign minister. They said an official visit to Berne should not take place within the next few months and that it would be wise to watch if the government in Vienna lives up to its commitments to democracy.

Traditionally, the new Austrian chancellor and foreign minister make their first foreign visit to Switzerland.

During their talks, the cabinet and political parties also discussed the national exhibition, the use of the National Bank’s excess gold reserves and the timetable for federal voting during the year.

From staff and wire reports