GENEVA

Switzerland and the EU on Friday announced the conclusion of negotiations on a comprehensive bilateral agreement aimed at deepening their cooperation across a range of fields.


At a joint press conference in Bern, Swiss President Viola Amherd and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen lauded the agreement as a pivotal moment in relations.

“Today is a milestone for the stabilization and further development of our bilateral relations,” Amherd said, adding that Switzerland and EU's "populations, economies, employees, consumers, students, and researchers benefit from this.”


The agreement, reached after nine months of intensive negotiations, addresses several long-standing issues, including market access, wage protections, and the free movement of people. It also paves the way for deeper collaboration in cutting-edge areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology.

Von der Leyen, for her part, described the agreement as “historic,” emphasizing its significance in a rapidly changing global landscape.

“Today’s world is highly interconnected,” she said. “Against this challenging backdrop, strong partnerships like ours are not only an advantage—they are necessary. This agreement makes sure that our partnership will stand the test of time, so that both sides can leverage the full potential of our close collaboration."


The deal includes provisions for Swiss access to the bloc's Horizon Europe research program, with new guidelines expected to take effect by January 2025. Swiss and EU students will also benefit from reciprocal rights in accessing universities, ensuring equal opportunities across borders.



Mutual benefits amid geopolitical challenges

Both leaders underscored the importance of the agreement against the backdrop of global challenges, including the war in Ukraine, growing economic protectionism, and geopolitical tensions.

“We are giving joint answers to global realities,” von der Leyen said, noting that with a joint effort, better solutions for supply chains, travel, commerce, and innovation can be reached.


Amherd highlighted the exhaustive efforts of the negotiation teams, which met over 200 times to secure the agreement.

“This process has now come to a substantive conclusion, and the Federal Council is convinced that the outcome is good and beneficial to both partners,” she said.

The agreement now enters a phase of legal review and ratification, with Switzerland’s parliament and voters set to play a critical role.

“Democratic processes take time,” Amherd acknowledged, “but they are highly legitimate. This marks the beginning of the political debate in Switzerland.”

Von der Leyen expressed optimism about the future of the partnership. “Let us show the world what is possible when good neighbors work together in a trusting way for a good future for democracy and the rule of law in Europe,” she concluded.