PM Modi, Swiss President Guy Parmelin Hold High-Level Meeting
PM Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin held high-level talks in New Delhi to strengthen India-Switzerland ties and celebrate the India-EFTA TEPA anniversary.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin convened for a significant delegation-level meeting at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday. The high-profile interaction marks a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship between India and the Swiss Confederation, focusing on expanding cooperation across multiple strategic sectors.
A Grand Welcome and Tributes to Mahatma Gandhi
The Swiss President's state visit commenced with profound respect for Indian heritage. President Parmelin, accompanied by his wife, Caroline Parmelin, visited Rajghat to participate in a solemn wreath-laying ceremony, paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. This gesture set a respectful tone for his three-day official itinerary in the country.
Upon his arrival, President Parmelin was accorded a formal ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. He was greeted by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signaling the importance India places on this diplomatic engagement.
Strengthening the India-EFTA Partnership
A central theme of the visit is the celebration of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). This expansive free trade pact, involving India and the four European Free Trade Association (EFTA) members—Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—officially came into effect on October 1, 2025.
Speaking to the press, President Parmelin described his visit as a "stepping stone" toward fortifying the long-standing partnership between the two nations. He noted that the relationship is anchored in shared democratic values, trust, and mutual respect. He added, "It is the right moment to celebrate how far we have come together, but even more importantly, to shape our joint future."
Broadening Cooperation Across Key Domains
The high-level discussions aimed at enhancing collaboration in several critical areas, including:
- Commerce and Investment
- Scientific Advancement
- Technological Innovation
- Workforce Mobility
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who also met with the Swiss leader, expressed confidence that the discussions between President Parmelin and Prime Minister Modi would further deepen engagement across a wide range of domains, building upon the promise of the TEPA agreement.
A Strategic Economic Connection
President Parmelin is leading a prominent delegation of senior officials and corporate executives during this maiden State visit. His presence is particularly significant given Switzerland's role as India's primary trade and investment partner among the EFTA member states.
The visit is set to culminate with the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on October 7, marking the first anniversary of the TEPA operationalisation. During his stay, President Parmelin will also meet with President Droupadi Murmu, who is scheduled to host a ceremonial banquet in his honour.