On December 20, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Swiss Confederation President Viola Amherd announced the successful conclusion of negotiations on a comprehensive package of agreements designed to strengthen and modernize the EU-Switzerland relationship.
This ambitious package reflects the deep ties between the two parties and aims to address the evolving needs of citizens and businesses. The agreements encompass both updates to existing arrangements and new areas of cooperation, ensuring the partnership is ready for future challenges.
Key elements of the agreement
- Modernization of existing agreements
Five longstanding agreements—covering air transport, land transport, free movement of persons, conformity assessment, and trade in agricultural products—will be updated to align with current EU legislation. This modernization will:- Enhance market access and legal certainty for businesses.
- Ensure a level playing field for EU and Swiss operators.
- Provide clearer benefits for citizens, including free movement rights.
- New areas of cooperation
The package introduces groundbreaking new agreements:- Food Safety: A Common Food Safety Area will align standards across the food chain, benefiting both consumers and producers.
- Health: Switzerland will gain access to EU health mechanisms, such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the Early Warning and Response System.
- Electricity: Switzerland will integrate into the EU’s internal electricity market, improving grid stability and efficiency while supporting decarbonization efforts.
- Participation in EU Programs: From 2025, Switzerland will participate in Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, Digital Europe, and other EU initiatives, fostering innovation, research, and education.
- Financial contribution to cohesion
Switzerland will establish a permanent financial mechanism to support economic and social cohesion within the EU, reflecting the strength of the partnership. This includes an annual contribution of EUR 375 million from 2025 to 2036, with provisions for further contributions beyond this period.
Next steps
While negotiations are complete, the agreements must now undergo legal revision, translation, signature, and ratification by both the EU and Switzerland. This formal process is critical to ensuring the package enters into force as planned.
Speaking on the agreement, Ursula von der Leyen stated:
“This agreement reflects the deep ties that have grown between the EU and Switzerland. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship, equipping us to address shared challenges and harness the full potential of our collaboration.”
With a focus on modernized rules, mutual benefits, and dynamic alignment, this historic package paves the way for a strengthened partnership fit for the future.
