New Delhi, 5 October 2026: An important bilateral meeting was held between PM Narendra Modi and Swiss President Gui Parmelin at Hyderabad House on Monday. After the meeting, both the leaders addressed a joint press conference. During this, PM Modi gave special importance to India-Switzerland relations and said that innovation, infrastructure and advanced technology are the three strong pillars of partnership between the two countries.
- “Switzerland's important contribution to the historic agreement with EFTA”
Welcoming the Swiss President, PM Modi said that his commitment towards India-Switzerland relations is praiseworthy. He said that, with his support last year, the historic Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) came into force between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries. This is India's first FTA with any economic group in Europe.
- Cooperation will increase in defense and nuclear energy
PM Modi said that both the countries have identified new possibilities for cooperation in the field of military exchange and defense production. Besides, it has also been agreed to deepen cooperation in the field of nuclear energy.
- mention of centuries old friendship
Referring to the historical relations between India and Switzerland, PM Modi said that the friendship between the two countries is centuries old. In the 19th century, Swami Vivekananda had a glimpse of the Himalayas in Switzerland. Mahatma Gandhiji also spent time in Switzerland and interacted with the people there. PM Modi said that today innovation, infrastructure and advanced technology have become strong pillars of partnership between the two countries.
- Important decisions to increase exports and attract investment
Both the countries have taken several important decisions to provide greater access to the goods produced in India in the Swiss market and to facilitate mutual investment. This will encourage exports of agriculture, pharma, textile and engineering sectors. Besides, it has also been agreed to attract new Swiss investment in sectors like biotech, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing and sustainability.
- MoU was also exchanged
Before the joint press conference, various MoUs were exchanged between India and the Swiss Federation in the presence of both the leaders.