The State Secretary and head of the Directorate of Political Affairs is the first point of contact for the Federal Council in matters of foreign policy. He directs the conceptual development, coordination and planning of foreign policy and oversees the reports submitted to the political authorities.

If necessary, the State Secretary represents the Head of Department at meetings of the foreign policy commissions in the National Council and Council of States. He also maintains regular contact with his peers abroad or in Berne.

The key dossiers include cooperation with the United Nations (UN), developing relations with the European Union (EU) and security and peace policy.