Switzerland and EU reach deal on future bilateral relations

After 197 meetings, negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union to update their trading relationship have been completed. The objectives have been achieved in all areas, the Swiss government announced on Friday. The formal signature on the deal is scheduled for spring 2025. Swiss parliament will also have its say in 2026. Following the failure in 2021 to finalise an institutional “framework agreement” aimed at simplifying ties between the two sides, Switzerland's governing Federal Council has opted for a sectoral approach to secure access to the EU internal market. The results of the negotiations are in line with Switzerland's interests in all twelve areas, the authorities said on Friday. In the area of free movement of persons, Switzerland will be able to maintain immigration geared to the needs of the economy. The agreement includes a safeguard clause and wages will be protected. Switzerland will also be able to protect its interests in the areas of land transport ...