Bilateral country relations
Switzerland is a European country whose safeguarding of interests in the world begins with Europe. Therefore Switzerland maintains bilateral relations with the individual member states of the EU and EFTA and other European states.
Switzerland is geographically located in the centre of Europe. It is closely intertwined with the surrounding states in economic, scientific, demographic, social and cultural terms. It shares its fundamental values. Stable, regulated and viable relations with the EU are therefore of great importance. In addition, it is important to maintain and promote direct bilateral relations with the individual European countries. A dense network of representations safeguards Switzerland's interests and contributes to its visibility in Europe. Consular services have been expanded in recent years, so that the ‘client groups’, which primarily include Swiss nationals, can count on a high-quality public service.
For more on this see
EU member states
The quality of Switzerland's relations with individual EU member states, first and foremost its neighbouring states, plays an important role in the context of Switzerland's relations with the EU as a whole.
Neighbouring states
Maintaining relations with neighbouring states and regions sharing a border with Switzerland is an important aspect of Swiss foreign policy.
Cross-border cooperation
Cross-border cooperation functions on a subsidiary basis, whereby the cantons take on most of the tasks and the FDFA provides strategic support.
EFTA member states and UK
Switzerland maintains special relations with the states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and the United Kingdom (UK).
Further European countries
Switzerland also maintains bilateral relations with countries that are not members of the EU or EFTA.
Contact
State Secretariat STS-FDFA
Federal Palace East
3003 Bern