NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – On October 5, in New Delhi, India and Switzerland formalized their partnership through the signing of five cooperation agreements and arrangements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin led the discussions during Parmelin’s three-day state visit. The agreements encompass areas such as migration, young professionals, transport, scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer. Both leaders also examined topics including trade, investment, defence, nuclear energy, and artificial intelligence. Parmelin’s visit marks his first state visit to India and his second trip to the country in 2026.
The migration partnership facilitates multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years, with visits lasting as long as six months. It also introduces renewable one-year permits for students. A dedicated Young Professionals Scheme will initially admit 300 participants from each nation annually, with the possibility of increasing the quota to 500. This program provides young professionals with temporary employment opportunities to enhance their career development and language skills. The migration framework also tackles issues related to irregular migration, human trafficking, document fraud, and the readmission of nationals required to leave.
A new transport and infrastructure agreement promotes cooperation on electric vehicles, ropeways, tunnels, and circular economy initiatives. Additionally, India’s Department of Science and Technology signed a research Letter of Intent with the Swiss National Science Foundation. Another memorandum connects the department with Zurich University of Applied Sciences through the Indo-Swiss Academia-Industry Training programme, which aims to foster innovation, technology transfer, and support science-based startups. Both nations also unveiled an Indo-Swiss Research Flagship initiative focusing on sectors such as health, clean energy, and space exploration.
Trade agreement boosts economic collaboration
The discussions took place shortly after the one-year anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, which became effective on October 1, 2025. EFTA comprises Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Its investment framework aims to attract $100 billion in Indian investments over 15 years and create one million direct jobs. Switzerland confirmed that the implementation of this agreement remains on schedule. Negotiations are also underway for a new bilateral investment protection treaty, with the Swiss government describing the progress as advanced.
Modi highlighted efforts to enhance Swiss market access for Indian exports such as farm goods, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering products. He also pointed out Swiss opportunities in biotechnology, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing, and sustainability sectors. India has invited increased Swiss involvement in infrastructure, manufacturing, and skills development projects. Existing collaborations include the Varanasi ropeway, Noida International Airport, railway initiatives, and mountain tunneling. Swiss government data indicates that approximately 350 Swiss companies operate in India through subsidiaries, branches, and joint ventures.
Discussions extend to defence, energy, and international issues
The leaders also explored broader topics such as military cooperation and defence manufacturing, although these areas did not result in formal agreements. They committed to deepening collaboration in nuclear energy and continued dialogue on artificial intelligence. Switzerland plans to host the Geneva AI Summit in spring 2027, following India’s 2026 AI summit. Both governments also exchanged views on research cooperation, responsible AI development, and inclusive approaches to technology. These conversations complemented the new agreements on mobility, science, transport, and innovation.
During their meeting, Modi and Parmelin also addressed issues concerning Ukraine, West Asia, multilateral organizations, and global governance. India emphasized mutual support for dialogue, diplomacy, and reform of international institutions. Parmelin, accompanied by business and scientific representatives, will attend the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on October 7, which aims to promote investment and cooperation under the trade agreement. His itinerary also includes a visit to Noida International Airport, operated by a Zurich Airport subsidiary.