ESA holds successful annual high-level talks with the Government of Liechtenstein

The EFTA Surveillance Authority's (ESA) College this week met with the Government of Liechtenstein in Vaduz to discuss issues relating to the European Economic Area (EEA) Agreement.

The annual "Package Meeting" brings together ESA and the Liechtenstein authorities at the expert level, with the main purpose of continuing a constructive dialogue, enhancing mutual understanding of ongoing cases, and advancing progress on key issues currently under examination.

In parallel to the Package Meeting, ESA's Vice-Presidents Árni Páll Árnason and Nuscha Wieczorek held a series of high-level meetings with members of the Liechtenstein Government and the Princely House. These included meetings with Prime Minister Brigitte Haas, Deputy Prime Minister Sabine Monauni, Minister of Social Affairs and Justice Emanuel Schädler, and Minister of Home Affairs, Economy and Sports Hubert Büchel. ESA's College also paid a courtesy visit to H.S.H. Erbprinz Alois von und zu Liechtenstein.

Discussions covered a range of ongoing cases across several policy areas, including environment, energy, and labour law. In particular, ESA and the Liechtenstein authorities exchanged views on issues related to access to justice in environmental matters, the follow-up to recent EFTA Court judgements, and progress in the implementation of EU legislation, including on the energy performance of buildings. These discussions helped clarify outstanding issues and identify ways to move cases forward.

The high-level exchanges provided an opportunity to take stock of cooperation, discuss key policy areas, and reinforce the strong and constructive relationship between ESA and Liechtenstein.

"We had very constructive and informative exchanges with Liechtenstein, which helped us better understand each other's positions on the open cases. It makes a difference to meet face to face to find solutions together. At the end of the day, we share the same goal, which is to enable Liechtenstein to participate successfully in a strong Internal Market," said ESA Vice-President Nuscha Wieczorek.

The Package Meeting and accompanying high-level talks form an important part of the ongoing dialogue between ESA and Liechtenstein, supporting efforts to resolve cases efficiently and to maintain a high level of compliance with EEA rules.

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