Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin identified defence and nuclear cooperation and signed five agreements, including longer visas and student permits.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin met in New Delhi on Monday and said the two countries had identified new cooperation in military exchanges, defence production and nuclear energy. Parmelin's visit marks the first anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, which entered into force on 1 October 2025.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the sides signed five agreements. A migration and mobility memorandum provides for multiple-entry visas of up to five years, stays of up to six months on each visit, and renewable one-year student permits, The Hindu reported. A separate agreement covers temporary work for young professionals.
Business Standard reported that the leaders agreed to set up a special group to review the trade pact and address market-access concerns, including India's request for better access for marine and agricultural products. Parmelin said Switzerland hoped to conclude an investment-protection agreement.
Modi called TEPA an ambitious blueprint. The agreement envisages 100 billion dollars of investment and one million direct jobs in India over 15 years, Business Standard reported.
The talks were held at Hyderabad House. No official timetable was published for the new defence or nuclear work beyond the statements after the meeting.
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- Modi said the sides identified new opportunities in military exchanges and defence production.
- Parmelin said Switzerland hoped to conclude an investment-protection agreement soon.