NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – During high-level discussions in New Delhi on Monday, India and Switzerland formalized five cooperation agreements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin jointly led the negotiations. The agreements encompass areas such as migration, youth employment programs, transport infrastructure, scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer. Additionally, the leaders discussed trade, investments, defense, nuclear energy, and artificial intelligence collaboration. Parmelin is currently on a three-day state visit to India, marking his first such visit and his second trip to the country this year.
One of the accords establishes a Migration and Mobility Partnership offering multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years. Each visit permitted under this agreement can last as long as six months, with student permits renewable on an annual basis. Another agreement introduces a Young Professionals Scheme for 300 participants from each nation annually, with potential to increase to 500. This program facilitates temporary employment to enhance professional skills and language proficiency. The migration framework also addresses issues related to irregular migration, human trafficking, and exploitation.
In addition, India and Switzerland signed an accord concerning transport technologies, mobility systems, and infrastructure development. The scope includes electric vehicles, ropeways, tunnels, circular economy initiatives, and other transportation sectors. A separate Letter of Intent connects India’s Department of Science and Technology with the Swiss National Science Foundation. Furthermore, an arrangement involving Zurich University of Applied Sciences supports innovation, technology transfer, and early-stage startups through the Indo-Swiss Academia-Industry Training program.
Trade Agreement Underpins Broader Economic Strategies
The discussions coincided with the first anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, which came into effect on October 1, 2025. EFTA comprises Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. The pact aims to mobilize $100 billion in investment in India over the next 15 years and generate one million direct jobs. Both parties confirmed that implementation is progressing as scheduled. Switzerland also reported that negotiations on a new bilateral investment protection agreement are in an advanced stage.
Modi highlighted that India and Switzerland have taken steps to expand Swiss market access for Indian agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering goods. He also pointed out opportunities for Swiss investment in sectors such as biotechnology, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing, and sustainability. India invited Swiss companies to increase efforts in infrastructure development, including capacity building, design, and manufacturing. Existing collaborations include projects like the Varanasi ropeway, Noida International Airport, railway initiatives, and tunneling in mountainous regions.
Enhanced Cooperation in Defense, Research, and Strategic Areas
During the talks, both leaders identified potential for expanded military exchanges and defense manufacturing, alongside a commitment to deepen cooperation in nuclear energy. Although these topics were discussed, they were not part of the five agreements signed. India also announced new joint research initiatives focusing on health, clean energy, and space exploration. The two governments unveiled the inaugural Indo-Swiss Research Flagship initiative to bolster scientific collaboration. Discussions also covered artificial intelligence, including preparations for Switzerland’s Geneva AI Summit scheduled for 2027.
Modi and Parmelin further discussed geopolitical issues such as Ukraine, West Asia, multilateral organizations, and global governance. India expressed support for dialogue, diplomacy, and reforms within international institutions. Parmelin traveled with a delegation comprising business and scientific representatives and is scheduled to attend the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on October 7, where government and industry leaders will discuss investment and cooperation under the trade agreement. His itinerary also includes a visit to Noida International Airport, operated by a Zurich Airport subsidiary.