Committee on Foreign Affairs MEPs conclude their visit to Switzerland

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MEPs reaffirm commitment for deepening relations between the EU and Switzerland, focusing on the broad package of agreements concluded in December 2024.

On 11-12 September, a delegation of six members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, led by the Chair of the Committee David McAllister (EPP, Germany) travelled to Bern to discuss EU-Switzerland relations, among others the broad package of agreements. The package represents a significant step toward further modernising and intensifying our bilateral cooperation as trusted neighbours and key economic partners, said MEPs.

The delegation met with Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Council Laurent Wehrli, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Council of States Marco Chiesa, Members of the Foreign Affairs Committees, Alexandre Fasel, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, State Secretary Helene Budliger Artieda, the Conference of Cantons, as well as relevant stakeholders.

The discussions highlighted the significance of further strengthening the longstanding partnership and political cooperation between the EU and Switzerland amid global unpredictability. The broad package of agreements concluded in December 2024 (for which consent by the European Parliament is required) is key in ensuring that this partnership remains predictable and brings tangible benefits to citizens and businesses on both sides. MEPs welcomed the shared commitment to strengthen cooperation in critical areas and the continued development of comprehensive bilateral relations, as well as for the timely conclusion of the ratification processes on both sides.

Head of the delegation David McAllister said: “Our long-standing relations are founded on common values and carry considerable political and economic significance. Together, we are building a relationship that is mutually beneficial, resilient, ambitious, and equipped to meet tomorrow’s challenges. The new package of bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the EU underscores the solid ties we have built over time. The Committee on Foreign Affairs will continue to closely follow the ratification process and analyse the package of agreements. We remain committed to advancing on this in a timely and constructive manner."

Members of the delegation:

David McAllister, Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (EPP, DE)

Christophe Grudler, AFET Standing Rapporteur for Switzerland (Renew Europe, FR)

Reinhold Lopatka (EPP, AT)

Željana Zovko (EPP, HR)

Andreas Schieder (S&D, AT)

Geadis Geadi (ECR, CY)