NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Following discussions in New Delhi on October 5, India and Switzerland formalized five agreements and arrangements to enhance their cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin led the negotiations during Parmelin’s three-day state visit. The accords encompass areas including migration, young professionals, transport, scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer. The leaders also examined issues related to 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, allowing visits of up to six months. It also offers renewable one-year permits for students. Additionally, a Young Professionals Scheme will initially admit 300 participants annually from each nation, with the potential to increase the quota to 500 later. This program provides young professionals with temporary employment opportunities to hone their career and language skills. The migration framework also aims to address irregular migration, human trafficking, document fraud, and the readmission of nationals needing to leave the country.
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 arrangement connects the department with Zurich University of Applied Sciences through the Indo-Swiss Academia-Industry Training programme. This initiative supports innovation, technology transfer, and startups based on science. Furthermore, both nations announced an Indo-Swiss Research Flagship initiative focused on sectors such as health, clean energy, and space.
Trade agreement boosts economic cooperation
The discussions occurred shortly after the first anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement coming into effect. The deal was implemented on October 1, 2025. EFTA includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Its investment framework aims to attract $100 billion in India over 15 years and create one million direct jobs. Switzerland confirmed that the implementation remains on track. Negotiations are also ongoing for a new bilateral investment protection agreement, with the Swiss government describing those discussions as advanced.
Modi highlighted that measures have been taken to improve Swiss access for Indian exports such as farm goods, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering products. He also pointed out Swiss investment opportunities in biotechnology, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing, and sustainability. India has extended invitations for Swiss companies to participate further in infrastructure projects, manufacturing, and skills development. Existing collaborations include the Varanasi ropeway, Noida International Airport, railway projects, and mountain tunnelling. According to Swiss government data, approximately 350 Swiss firms operate in India through subsidiaries, branches, and joint ventures.
Defense, energy, and global issues discussed during talks
The leaders also addressed broader topics such as military exchanges and defence production, although these areas were not part of the five agreements signed. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in nuclear energy and continue dialogue on artificial intelligence. Switzerland plans to host the Geneva AI Summit in spring 2027, following India’s 2026 AI meeting. Discussions also covered research collaboration and responsible, inclusive development of artificial intelligence. These conversations complemented the new agreements on mobility, science, transport, and innovation.
During their meeting, Modi and Parmelin also examined issues related to Ukraine, West Asia, multilateral institutions, and global governance. India emphasized mutual support for dialogue, diplomacy, and reforms within international organizations. Parmelin traveled with business and scientific representatives and is scheduled to attend the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on October 7. The event will facilitate dialogue between government officials and industry leaders on investment and cooperation under the trade agreement. His itinerary also includes a visit to Noida International Airport, operated by a Zurich Airport subsidiary.