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Switzerland's European policy

Given the close ties Switzerland maintains with its European neighbors, it is crucial for the country to pursue a concerted and targeted policy that serves its interests vis-à-vis the EU and the European countries. With regard to its most important partner, the EU, this is achieved through the bilateral approach. To this end, Switzerland has concluded bilateral agreements with the EU in clearly defined areas.

At the Lohn in Kehrsatz, a red carpet leads to the door with the EU and Swiss flags next to it; a person walks past in a blur in the foreground.

President of the Confederation Guy Parmelin speaks alongside Federal Councillors Ignazio Cassis and Beat Jans at a press conference on the dispatch linked to the Switzerland-EU Package on Friday, 13 March 2026.

13 March 2026

Switzerland-EU package (Bilaterals III): Federal Council adopts dispatch

The Federal Council aims to stabilise relations with the EU and, where it is in Switzerland's interests, develop them further.

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Dossiers

Chart depicting the elements of the Federal Council's package approach.

13 March 2026

Package Switzerland-EU (Bilaterals III)

The package approach comprises a number of thematic elements, including new agreements and institutional solutions.

The old Rhine bridge connects the Swiss and German parts of Rheinfelden. It stands for Switzerland's close relations with the EU member states.

1 February 2026

Bilateral country relations

Switzerland maintains bilateral relations with the individual member states of the EU and EFTA as well as with the other European states such as Vatican City.

Swiss border guards at the airport.

1 February 2026

Schengen/Dublin

As an associated state of Schengen/Dublin, Switzerland takes part in European cooperation on borders, justice, police, visas and asylum.

Swiss contribution

A group of people working together.

19 March 2026

Swiss contribution to selected EU member states

Through the Swiss contribution, Switzerland is investing in security, stability and prosperity in Europe and strengthening its bilateral relations with partner countries and the EU.

Two boys take a picture from a blackboard.

1 February 2026

Second Swiss Contribution

The second Swiss contribution helps to reduce economic and social disparities in the EU.