Press statements by President von der Leyen with the President of Switzerland Viola Amherd

Summary

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis have initiated negotiations for an updated partnership between the European Union and Switzerland. The talks aim to strengthen economic ties, ensure fair competition, and provide good conditions for citizens. Both parties seek a swift conclusion to the negotiations, with a focus on mutual benefits, shared values, and joint efforts in areas such as energy, health, education, and climate change monitoring.

Takeaways

• 🤝 The European Union and Switzerland have begun negotiations for an updated partnership with enhanced trust.
• 📈 The goal is to conclude the negotiations by the end of the year, reflecting the unique and demanding nature of their relationship.
• 🌍 Switzerland is a significant economic partner to the EU, with trade volumes between Switzerland and certain German states exceeding that of China.
• 🛠️ The partnership aims to strengthen and nurture the relationship, addressing new challenges such as energy and health.
• 💪 Fair and equal competitive conditions for all economic actors on both sides are a priority.
• 🌟 The EU wants to ensure equal treatment for all EU citizens working in Switzerland, regardless of their country of origin.
• 🎓 The partnership includes opportunities for Swiss participation in EU programs, such as Erasmus+ for students and Horizon Europe for researchers.
• 🚀 The aim is to complete a package of ten agreements, with a focus on making good and rapid progress on each.
• 🤗 The EU and Switzerland value their close partnership, which is beneficial for both parties and maintains a variety of interests and values.
• 📊 Switzerland seeks access to the European market, work-oriented immigration, wage protection, and involvement in European research projects.
• 🌈 The partnership between Switzerland and the EU is highlighted as crucial in the current international context, connecting not just interests but also shared values and goals.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the meeting between the European Union and Switzerland mentioned in the transcript?

The main purpose of the meeting is to begin negotiations for an updated partnership with closer ties and strengthened trust between the European Union and Switzerland.

Where did the EU and Switzerland leaders meet previously?

The leaders of the EU and Switzerland previously met in Davos.

What is the goal for the negotiations between the EU and Switzerland?

The goal is to conclude the negotiations by the end of the year, aiming to strengthen and update the partnership between the two entities.

How does the trade volume between Switzerland and two German states compare to China's trade volume with Switzerland?

The trade volume between Switzerland and the German states of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria alone is greater than the entire trade volume with China.

What are some of the new challenges that the EU and Switzerland aim to address together?

The EU and Switzerland aim to address new challenges such as energy and health issues together.

What does the EU want to ensure for its citizens working in Switzerland?

The EU wants to ensure that all EU citizens are treated equally in Switzerland, regardless of which member state they come from.

What is one of the potential areas for Swiss participation in EU programs mentioned in the transcript?

One potential area for Swiss participation in EU programs is the possibility for Swiss students to join the Erasmus+ program, fostering friendships and lifelong bonds.

How does the transcript suggest the EU and Switzerland can collaborate in scientific research?

The transcript suggests that scientists from both the EU and Switzerland can collaborate in researching and advancing innovations through programs like Horizon Europe and by monitoring climate change in the Alps using the Copernicus satellite program.

What is the significance of the partnership between the EU and Switzerland in the current international context?

The partnership is significant as it connects not only interests but also values and goals of peace, democracy, and the rule of law, especially in a time when these principles are being questioned in Europe.

How many agreements currently connect the EU and Switzerland?

More than 100 agreements currently connect the EU and Switzerland.

What does the Swiss Federal Councillor for Foreign Affairs, Ignazio Cassis, and the Vice-President of the Commission, Maroš Šefčovič, contribute to the partnership?

Ignazio Cassis and Maroš Šefčovič have contributed to the partnership through their tireless work and commitment, helping to shape the future of the EU-Switzerland relationship.