A New Era of Cooperation

Switzerland and the European Union have taken a significant step towards strengthening their bilateral relations. Swiss Federal President Viola Amherd and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an agreement on Friday that aims to enhance Bern's access to the bloc's internal market and its overall participation in EU programs.

The new agreements will integrate Switzerland into the EU's food safety and health mechanisms, grant Bern entry to the bloc’s internal electricity market, and establish Switzerland’s "permanent" financial contribution to economic cohesion within the bloc. Additionally, the deal will provide Switzerland access to key EU programs, including Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, and others.

Trade and Economic Security Commissioner Maros Sefcovic expressed his satisfaction with the deal, stating, "As in all negotiations, we needed to strike the right balance – by safeguarding the interests of the European Union, while listening carefully to Swiss concerns. I am convinced that this is a positive, balanced deal worth promoting and supporting jointly."