The two chambers of parliament and the National Council of Switzerland voted to amend the law, allowing in the future to supply military equipment to Ukraine.
The War Materials Act previously banned the transfer of weapons from Switzerland to third countries, Euronews reports.
A commission from the Council of States of the Federal Assembly, the upper house of the Swiss parliament, has recommended loosening export controls on Swiss military equipment, subject to certain conditions.
In particular, the country to which Swiss-made weapons will be transferred must not seriously violate human rights. In addition, there should be no danger that military materials will be used against the civilian population.
Also, the country should not be involved in an internal or international armed conflict. The only exception is if a country, such as Ukraine, defends itself against aggression in accordance with international law.
The last point should be decided by the UN: the re-export of Swiss weapons to the war zone is proposed to be allowed only if the UN General Assembly recognizes such self-defense by a two-thirds majority or if the Security Council passes a resolution to that effect.
Now the committee on security policy of the National Council must develop an appropriate bill. After that, it will be considered by the parliament, and the final decision will be made by the people in a referendum.
Source: Racurs
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