A recent annual gathering of the Swiss defense industry in Bern saw an unprecedented invitation extended to foreign military attachés. Among them was China's military attaché, whose presence has sparked debate and concern among intelligence experts regarding potential espionage risks. This marks the first time such foreign representatives have been included in the event.
Key Takeaways
- China's military attaché attended a Swiss defense industry meeting in Bern.
- Experts warn of potential espionage risks, citing China's intelligence activities.
- The Federal Office for Defense Procurement views the risk as low.
- The invitation aimed to showcase Switzerland's evolving export rules for war materials.
- Future invitations for foreign attachés are planned, excluding Russia.
Foreign Attachés Join Swiss Defense Industry
Last week, over 250 executives from Switzerland's defense sector convened at the Bern barracks for their annual industry orientation. This event, organized by the Federal Office for Defense Procurement (armasuisse), typically brings together leaders from major manufacturers like Ruag and Rheinmetall, alongside representatives from smaller, more discreet firms.
This year, the gathering introduced a new element: the inclusion of foreign military attachés. This decision followed a request from a Western attaché to participate. Subsequently, armasuisse extended invitations to all accredited attachés, with the exception of Russia's representative.
Fact: Military Attachés in Switzerland
Over 40 military attachés are accredited in Switzerland. Approximately one-quarter reside in the country, while others are based in neighboring states and cover multiple nations. They serve as security policy representatives, reporting on military developments and the security situation in their host countries.
While the invitation was broad, only a few nations accepted. Representatives from South Korea, Germany, and Austria attended. However, the presence of China's military attaché drew particular attention and criticism.
Espionage Concerns Highlighted by Experts
The Federal Intelligence Service (FIS) identifies Russia and China as the primary sources of espionage threats to Switzerland. Individuals with privileged access to sensitive areas, such as those in the defense industry, are considered prime targets.
Adrian Hänni, a historian specializing in intelligence services at the Institute for Contemporary History Munich, expressed significant concern about the Chinese attaché's attendance. "This is a very interesting event for a Chinese military attaché," Hänni stated. He explained that such an occasion allows for identifying key individuals, fostering relationships, and potentially preparing for future recruitment attempts.
"Tagungen wie diese können ideal sein, um mögliche Spionageziele zu identifizieren."
Ralph Weber, a professor at the University of Basel and an expert on China's power structures, echoed these sentiments. He noted that China utilizes various actors, including embassy staff, for intelligence gathering. Weber emphasized the need for caution when interacting with such individuals, a warning consistently issued by the FIS.
Background: What Military Attachés Do
Military or defense attachés are diplomatic officers representing their respective defense ministries and armed forces. They handle bilateral security questions and report on military developments and the security situation in their host country. They are members of their country's embassy.
Armasuisse Downplays Risk, Cites Transparency
Urs Loher, Director of the Federal Office for Defense Procurement, dismissed the espionage concerns. He described the risk as "gering" or low, emphasizing the public nature of the event. Loher stated that no confidential information was disclosed during the meeting.
He also noted that industry representatives are free to decide what they share during bilateral discussions. Despite Loher's assessment, reports suggest that the Chinese presence sparked internal discussions within the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).
Objectives Behind the Invitations
Loher clarified that a key objective of inviting foreign attachés was to signal Switzerland's evolving stance on war material export rules. He indicated that Switzerland is moving towards loosening these regulations. "Therefore, it was even good that attachés were present," Loher commented.
This strategic move aims to convey Switzerland's revised approach to international partners. The expectation is that greater transparency regarding regulatory changes could facilitate future defense collaborations and exports.
Future Invitations and Expert Warnings
Looking ahead, Loher intends to extend invitations to military attachés again next year. This decision underscores the federal government's commitment to this new engagement strategy, despite the criticisms raised by intelligence experts.
Adrian Hänni acknowledged the diplomatic rationale behind such invitations. However, he maintained his stance on the espionage risks. "From a counter-espionage perspective, the presence of the Chinese military attaché is very delicate, and there would be good reasons not to have him there again," Hänni concluded.
The balancing act between diplomatic engagement and national security remains a complex challenge for Swiss authorities. The debate highlights the ongoing tension between fostering international relations and protecting sensitive industrial information.
- Switzerland's intelligence service warns against Chinese espionage.
- The defense industry is a frequent target for foreign intelligence.
- Identifying potential targets for recruitment is a common intelligence tactic.
- The event provided an opportunity for networking among industry leaders.