After 197 meetings, negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union are over. The objectives have been achieved in all areas, the Swiss government announced on Friday.
The official initialing of the agreement, which aims to update trade relations between Bern and European countries, is planned for spring 2025. The Swiss Parliament will discuss it in 2026 and several referendums could be organized.
Following the failure of the framework agreement in 2021, the Swiss government has opted for a sectoral approach in order to guarantee access to the European internal market. The results of the negotiations are in line with Switzerland's interests in all 12 areas, authorities said on Friday.
Regarding the free movement of people, Switzerland will be able to maintain immigration adapted to the needs of the economy. The agreement includes an escape clause and salaries will be protected. Switzerland will also be able to protect its interests in the areas of land transport, agriculture and electricity.
From January 1, 2025, Swiss researchers will have access to almost all calls for tenders from Horizon Europe's European programs.
In return, Switzerland has committed to paying 130 million francs per year to the EU cohesion fund for the years 2025 to 2029. For the years 2030 to 2036, this annual payment will increase to 350 million francs.
The outcome of the negotiations is a “important step for the stabilization and development of relations between Switzerland and the EU”declared the President of the Confederation Viola Amherd.
This is a “common step forward on the bilateral path,” she said at a joint press conference with Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, on Friday in Bern. “The solution found is in the interest of both parties.”
The political debate is now launchedsaid Viola Amherd. Parliament and the people will now “take the lead roles”. Democratic processes take time, she added. “They’re not always easy, but they score very well in terms of legitimacy.”
The country's main political parties reacted to the closure of the negotiations. The left is skeptical, even critical; the UDC is opposed to it; and the other parties welcome the result, but with caution.
