NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – On October 5, in New Delhi, India and Switzerland formalized their growing partnership through signing 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. Additionally, the leaders examined trade, investment, defence, nuclear energy, and artificial intelligence. Parmelin’s visit marked 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 permitted for 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 later. This program offers young professionals temporary employment opportunities to enhance their careers 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.
An agreement on transport and infrastructure promotes collaboration on electric vehicles, ropeways, tunnels, and circular economy initiatives. India’s Department of Science and Technology signed a research Letter of Intent with the Swiss National Science Foundation. Another accord connects the department with Zurich University of Applied Sciences through the Indo-Swiss Academia-Industry Training programme, which supports innovation, technology transfer, and science-based startups. Furthermore, the two nations announced an Indo-Swiss Research Flagship initiative focusing on health, clean energy, and space sectors.
Trade agreement bolsters economic relations
The discussions occurred shortly after the first 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 investments in India over 15 years and generate one million direct jobs. Switzerland confirmed that implementation remains on schedule. Negotiations are also underway for a new bilateral investment protection agreement, with the Swiss government describing those talks as advanced.
Modi highlighted efforts to improve Swiss market access for Indian farm products, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering goods. He also emphasized Swiss investment opportunities in biotechnology, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing, and sustainability. India extended invitations for Swiss participation in infrastructure design, manufacturing, and skills development. Existing collaborations include the Varanasi ropeway, Noida International Airport, railway projects, and mountain tunnelling. Swiss government data indicates that around 350 Swiss companies operate in India through subsidiaries, branches, and joint ventures.
Defense, energy, and global issues discussed
While military exchanges and defence production were discussed, they did not result in signed agreements. The leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in nuclear energy and continued discussions on artificial intelligence. Switzerland is planning to host the Geneva AI Summit in spring 2027, following India’s 2026 AI meeting. Both governments also explored research collaborations and advocated for responsible, inclusive approaches to artificial intelligence. These talks complemented the new agreements on mobility, science, transport, and innovation.
During their meeting, Modi and Parmelin also addressed issues related to Ukraine, West Asia, multilateral institutions, and global governance. India stated that both nations support dialogue, diplomacy, and reforms within international organizations. Parmelin, accompanied by business and scientific representatives, will attend the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on October 7. The event aims to bring together government officials and industry leaders to discuss investment and cooperation under the trade agreement. His itinerary also includes a visit to Noida International Airport, operated by a Zurich Airport subsidiary.