EU-Switzerland : a landmark partnership deal
Today marks a pivotal moment in European cooperation as the European Union and Switzerland signed a comprehensive package of agreements, modernizing and deepening one of the continent’s most vital partnerships. The Renew Europe Group warmly welcomes this landmark achievement, which promises to bring tangible benefits to citizens, businesses, and regions on both sides of the border.
By modernising existing agreements and introducing new ones, the package ensures smoother access to a market of 460 million consumers, fosters innovation, and creates new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike.
The newly signed agreements establish a robust framework, aligning standards and rules in key sectors such as air and land transport, free movement of persons, and mutual recognition. Students will gain new opportunities, including access to universities across borders without additional fees. New agreements on food safety, electricity and health also reflects the dynamic nature of EU-Switzerland cooperation.
As Renew MEP Christophe Grudler (Modem, France), rapporteur on the file, emphasised:
“Every day, millions of European and Swiss citizens cross the border to work, study, seek medical treatment, or bring life to our regions. This concrete reality makes the relationship between the European Union and Switzerland one of the closest on the continent. In an unstable international context, the signing of this package of agreements marks a decisive step: it consolidates our partnership, modernises it, and gives it the means to endure. In practical terms, these ‘Bilaterals III’ will make life easier for citizens and businesses, with clearer rules for travelling, studying, working, and cooperating across the border. The democratic process is now continuing in the European Parliament. We will examine these agreements carefully to ensure a balanced, stable, and beneficial framework for both parties.”
Christophe GrudlerRenew Europe MEP, France, Mouvement Démocrate
Next Steps: The ratification process will now unfold in the European Parliament
The Renew Europe Group is committed to thoroughly examining these agreements in the European Parliament. Our goal is to ensure they deliver on their promise of stability, fairness, and mutual benefit for both the EU and Switzerland. A vote will take place at the end of the process, at which Parliament will either give or withhold its consent to the conclusion of these agreements.
Renew Europe considers this package a strategic investment in stability. At a time of geopolitical uncertainty, strengthening reliable partnerships is politically essential for safeguarding our common values and resilience.