The EU and Switzerland have launched a comprehensive package of agreements aimed at deepening and broadening their bilateral ties. President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and Swiss President Guy Parmelin signed the package on Monday.
The new framework is designed to provide modern access to the EU internal market for key sectors and to deliver economic benefits for both parties. By harmonising standards and rules in closely linked areas, the agreements will give legal certainty, simplify trade in goods such as medical devices and food, and make cross‑border supply easier for businesses.
Uniform rules will also be established for people who live, work or study across the EU‑Switzerland border. Switzerland will contribute to the development of legislation in the covered fields and will have the opportunity to shape these rules.
In addition to updates to existing agreements on air and land transport, free movement of persons, and mutual recognition of conformity assessments, the new pact introduces arrangements on food safety, electricity, health, and a fair financial contribution from Switzerland to the EU’s economic and social cohesion. It also sets Switzerland’s participation in the EU Space Programme, establishes a protocol on parliamentary cooperation, and launches a joint declaration to create a senior‑level dialogue on bilateral relations.