World

India and Switzerland Sign Mobility and Cooperation Agreements, Expand Defence and Nuclear Ties

By Shubhajit Roy

India and Switzerland signed agreements to ease long‑duration visas and exchange young professionals, and to deepen cooperation in defence and nuclear energy, after a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin on Monday. Modi said the talks opened new possibilities for military exchanges and defence production and reached a consensus to further deepen collaboration in nuclear energy. The Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement and the Young Professionals Agreement will allow multiple‑entry visas for up to five years, with stays of up to six months per visit and renewable one‑year student permits. The young professionals pact will exchange 300 people annually per country, potentially rising to 500, with a 30‑to‑90‑day verification period for nationality and residency. Modi praised Parmelin’s support for the historic Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, which entered into force last October. He highlighted TEPA’s role in attracting $100 billion in investment and creating one million direct jobs in India over the next 15 years. Parmelin noted the partnership benefits both sides: India gains access to capital, technology transfers and markets for high‑value goods, while Switzerland benefits from trade with a growing partner amid volatile global trade. He also mentioned plans to conclude an investment protection agreement and to advance intellectual property protection. Modi said the agreements will expand market access for Indian exports of agriculture, pharmaceuticals, textiles and engineering goods to Switzerland and attract Swiss investment in biotech, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing and sustainability. He cited infrastructure projects such as the Varanasi ropeway, Jewar Airport in Noida, and rail and tunnelling projects in hilly areas as examples of cooperation. An agreement on transport and infrastructure invites Swiss companies to invest in India, participate in capacity building, design and manufacturing, and launch joint research projects in health, clean energy and space. The India‑EFTA Prosperity Summit will serve as a platform to translate the trade and investment partnership into concrete outcomes. Modi also extended best wishes to Switzerland for hosting the next AI Summit next year.