Daniel Risch: “The country works well even in difficult times” – Liechtenstein
VADUZ – Liechtenstein can also make a small contribution to peace and freedom, as Prime Minister Daniel Risch says as a message for the New Year.
The New Year’s message from Prime Minister Daniel Risch:
Dear residents. Another year comes to an end. A year in which a lot has happened. One that we hope to remember fondly in certain respects. On the positive side, I was personally very pleased, for example, that in 2022 celebrations such as the association music festival, the fire brigade festival or the national holiday were finally possible again on a larger scale. Unfortunately, the year 2022 was also one that showed us that peace and freedom in the world are very vulnerable. All of the pictures from the Ukraine are very present to us. Unfortunately, there are other conflicts and crises in the world that have come to a head in the last twelve months.
Make our contribution on a small scale
In Liechtenstein, we rightly ask ourselves what we can do and what our contribution can be. At first glance, our possibilities as a small country do not seem all that great. As a sovereign state, however, we can also make our contribution on a small scale – and that happens every day. Through solidarity, by giving those seeking protection a temporary home, by being there for them and by supporting them. We also make a contribution to local financial and crisis aid in war and crisis zones. And we do it economically, working side-by-side with our partners to enforce sanctions on states that do not comply with the international order. Although we may have a small voice as a small country, I believe it is our duty to raise that voice when human rights are violated and the UN Charter is violated in this way.
reliability and solidarity
We are all aware that the geopolitical conflicts are not leaving our country untouched. Therefore, it is and has been important to the government to help those who need it most. During the corona pandemic, the economy was intervened massively in some cases and the companies affected were therefore also given comprehensive support. This support has been shown to work. Due to rising energy prices and a possible power shortage, we are now striving to take the necessary measures and implement them in the new year. It’s about reliability and solidarity.
As difficult as the current situation in Europe and the world is, it can be said that our country works well even in difficult times. This is because we stand together, support each other, but also because we maintain good partnerships with other countries. We do that internationally, but especially in Europe and in our neighborhood.
Putting what connects before what separates
So in the coming year we can celebrate our relationship with a neighbor in a very special way. March 29 is a big anniversary for our country. Exactly 100 years ago, i.e. in 1923, Liechtenstein and Switzerland signed the “Treaty of Annexation of the Principality of Liechtenstein to the Swiss Customs Territory”. A milestone, as it turned out later. The customs treaty laid the foundation for the friendly relationship and successful cooperation with our western neighbors. He was also decisive for the economic boom and today’s prosperity. Especially in uncertain times, the model of the neighborhood between Switzerland and Liechtenstein can be a role model. It is important to the Liechtenstein Government to honor this bond together with Switzerland. We also share common values that are important to us. Reliability, solidarity, tolerance and respect. These values are a good basis for looking ahead with confidence. Despite all the challenges in the new year, an important goal WILL be to put what we have in common and what unites us before what divides us in many areas, both at home and abroad.
With these thoughtful wishes for the year 2023, I wish you all the best, good health, joie de vivre and many positive encounters.