PM Modi Meets Swiss President Guy Parmelin at Hyderabad House
Swiss President Guy Parmelin met PM Modi at Hyderabad House to discuss trade, technology, and the India-EFTA TEPA partnership during his State visit.
In a significant move to bolster international ties, Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. This high-level meeting forms a crucial part of President Parmelin's official State visit to India, aimed at deepening the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Strengthening the India-EFTA Partnership
A central theme of the discussions involves the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). This expansive free trade pact, which includes Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, officially came into effect on October 1, 2025. President Parmelin highlighted that his visit serves as a "stepping stone" to fortify the long-standing partnership and celebrate the progress made through this agreement.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who also met with the Swiss leader, expressed confidence that the engagement with Prime Minister Modi would expand cooperation across a wide range of domains, building upon the promise of the TEPA accord.
A Comprehensive Diplomatic Itinerary
The Swiss President's visit is marked by several high-profile engagements designed to touch upon various sectors of mutual interest:
- Ceremonial Welcome: President Parmelin received an official reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, greeted by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi.
- Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi: Earlier in the day, the President and his wife, Caroline Parmelin, attended a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at Rajghat.
- Bilateral Discussions: The Prime Minister and the Swiss President are set to assess advancements in trade, investment, science, technology, innovation, and workforce mobility.
- State Banquet: President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to host a ceremonial banquet in honour of the visiting leader.
Focus on Innovation and Global Affairs
Accompanied by a prominent delegation of senior officials and corporate executives, President Parmelin's maiden State visit focuses heavily on technological innovation and scientific advancement. The discussions are also expected to cover regional and global affairs, as well as multilateral cooperation.
President Parmelin remarked that the diplomatic ties between India and Switzerland are firmly anchored in shared democratic values, trust, and mutual respect. He noted that the current moment is ideal not just to celebrate past achievements, but to actively shape a joint future for both nations.