NEW DELHI: Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin stated on Monday that his visit to India serves as a “stepping stone” towards fortifying the “close and long-standing partnership” binding the two countries.
President Parmelin received an official ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Upon reaching the presidential estate, the visiting dignitary was greeted cordially by President Droupadi Murmu alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Addressing members of the press following the ceremonial welcome, President Parmelin remarked, “The visit is an excellent opportunity to emphasise the importance that both Switzerland and India attach to this relationship.”
He further noted that diplomatic ties connecting India and Switzerland are anchored upon “shared democratic values as well as on trust and mutual respect”.
“My visit is a stepping stone towards further growth, deepening and strengthening of our close, broad and long-standing partnership. I am pleased and honoured that we have the chance to exchange views on matters of bilateral and global importance,” the Swiss head of state stated.
“I am especially glad that my stay in India will enable us to commemorate the first anniversary of the entry into force of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement, TEPA,” he added.
The India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) constitutes an expansive free trade pact established between India and the four European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member nations, comprising Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Having been formally signed on March 10, 2024, the accord officially took effect on October 1, 2025.
“It is the right moment to celebrate how far we have come together, but even more importantly, to shape our joint future,” President Parmelin observed.
The Swiss leader touched down in India on Monday to undertake a three-day State visit, honouring an invitation extended by Prime Minister Modi. The high-level diplomatic itinerary centres on enhancing bilateral collaboration across commerce, investment, scientific advancement, technological innovation and workforce mobility.
