India-Switzerland Ties

Syllabus: GS2/IR

Context

• The President of Switzerland is on a 3 day state visit to India.

Major Highlights

• India and Switzerland have signed five agreements and agreed to deepen cooperation.
• MoU on Migration and Mobility Partnership (MMP): The MoU aims to develop migration and mobility cooperation under equal treatment principles.
  • It provides for multiple-entry visas for up to 5 years, including stays of up to 6 months on each visit, and renewable 1-year student permits.
• Agreement on the Exchange of Young Professionals (YPS): It incorporates an exchange of 300 persons annually per country, which may increase to 500, and a timeline of 30/90 days for verification of nationality/residency status, among other provisions.
• MoU on Promotion and Collaboration on Transportation Technologies, Mobility Systems and Infrastructure in Identified Areas.
• MoU to promote long-term cooperation between the Indian and Swiss research communities by supporting exploratory scientific collaboration.
• Implementation Arrangement (IA) for cooperation in Innovation, Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship between the Department of Science and Technology and the Zurich University of Applied Sciences.

India-Switzerland Bilateral Ties

• Diplomatic relations with Switzerland were established with the signing of the Treaty of Friendship in 1948.
  • In 2023, the two countries marked the 75th anniversary of the Friendship Treaty.
• Institutional Mechanisms: Secretary-level FOC dialogue was established in 1996, Joint Economic Commission was set up in 1959, Joint Committee on Science & Technology.
• Trade Relations: With a total trade of USD 23.27 billion, Switzerland was India’s 15th largest trading partner in FY 2024-25. Switzerland is amongst the world’s major gold refining centres.
  • The landmark Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the EFTA States (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) entered into force on 1 October 2025  
  • Switzerland and the other EFTA States became the first European partners to conclude a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India. 
• FDIs from Switzerland to India from 2000 – 2025 amounted to USD 10.87 billion placing it at 12th position globally.
  • Swiss FDI in India increased by 53% during 2015-2023.
• Science and Technology: The Inter-governmental agreement for S&T cooperation was signed in 2003. Cooperation includes joint research, innovation, advanced technology and academic exchanges.
• Diaspora: There are over 29,248 Indians, including about 9662 persons of Indian origin (mostly in Engineering, IT, pharmaceuticals and paramedical, nursing fields) staying in Switzerland.

Significance of Switzerland for India

• Trade and market access: The India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) provides India greater access to EFTA markets and aims to expand trade in goods and services.
• Major investment commitment: Under TEPA, EFTA has committed to promote USD 100 billion of investment in India over 15 years and facilitate 1 million direct jobs, creating opportunities for India’s manufacturing and services sectors.
• Technology and innovation: Switzerland has expertise in precision engineering, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, research and innovation. Cooperation can help India access technology, research capabilities and specialised skills.
• Multilateral and diplomatic importance: Switzerland’s neutrality, strong multilateral engagement and role in international organisations in Geneva make it relevant for India’s diplomatic and multilateral interests. 

Conclusion

• India–Switzerland relations have evolved from a traditional friendship into a multidimensional economic, technological and strategic partnership, with TEPA providing a major new foundation for deeper economic engagement.

Source: TH