India–Switzerland Relations Gain New Momentum as President Parmelin Visits New Delhi
Trade, Technology, Mobility and Innovation Emerge as Key Pillars of the Growing Partnership
Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin paid a state visit to India from 5 to 7 October 2026, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking an important moment in the expanding India–Switzerland partnership. The three-day visit focused on trade and investment, science and technology, mobility, education, infrastructure and emerging areas of cooperation, including artificial intelligence.
Strengthening Economic and Trade Ties
A central theme of the visit was the implementation of the India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which entered into force on 1 October 2025. The visit coincided with the first anniversary of the agreement and provided an opportunity to assess progress while identifying new avenues for business and investment.
During his meetings with Indian leaders, President Parmelin discussed expanding economic engagement and creating greater opportunities for Swiss companies in India’s rapidly growing economy.
Expanding Cooperation in Technology and Innovation
Science, technology and innovation featured prominently during the visit. India and Switzerland explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in advanced technologies, research, innovation and technology transfer.
Artificial intelligence was also an important area of discussion. Both countries recognise the need for international cooperation on responsible AI and effective global governance. Switzerland’s planned hosting of an international AI summit in Geneva in 2027 could provide another platform for continued India–Switzerland cooperation.
New Agreements on Mobility and Young Professionals
An important outcome of the visit was the signing of agreements on migration and mobility and young professionals.
The Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement aims to facilitate legal mobility while strengthening cooperation on issues such as irregular migration and human trafficking. The Young Professionals Agreement will create opportunities for young Indians and Swiss citizens to gain professional experience and training in each other’s countries.
These agreements add a valuable people-to-people dimension to the bilateral relationship.
Swiss Expertise in India’s Infrastructure
President Parmelin also visited Noida International Airport, operated by a subsidiary of Zurich Airport. The visit highlighted Switzerland’s contribution to India’s infrastructure and aviation development and the potential for further cooperation in India’s expanding transport sector.
A Partnership Looking Beyond Trade
The visit concluded with the India–EFTA Prosperity Summit, bringing together government and business representatives to discuss investment, trade and future economic opportunities.
President Parmelin’s visit demonstrates that India–Switzerland relations are moving beyond traditional economic cooperation toward a broader partnership encompassing technology, scientific research, infrastructure, mobility, innovation and global governance.
As both countries look toward the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2028, the October 2026 visit has provided fresh momentum for building a more dynamic and future-oriented India–Switzerland partnership.
