AMN/ WEB DESK
India and Switzerland will explore enhancing defence cooperation in the fields of training as well as between defence industries. Briefing the media in New Delhi, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Sibi George, said Swiss companies can explore opportunities under Make in India through joint production and development in the defence sector.
He said, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the President of the Swiss Confederation is currently on a state visit to India and today both leaders held talks. Both sides emphasised continued cooperation in sectors like infrastructure, science, technology, space and nuclear energy. Prime Minister Modi also hosted a banquet lunch in honour of the President of Switzerland. Both sides also exchanged Memoranda of Understanding, Agreements and Letters of Intent.
He informed that during his visit to Delhi, the President of Switzerland will participate in the Prosperity Summit on Wednesday, commemorating the first anniversary of the coming into force of the India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement TEPA.
Mr George said, the summit is an important platform bringing together policymakers and businesses from India and the EFTA countries. He said, the President of Switzerland has contributed personally, in his role as the Federal Councillor for Economic Affairs, Education and Research, to the negotiations and finalisation of TEPA, which was signed in March 2024 and came into force on 1st October last year.
Mr George said, Switzerland will be hosting the next AI Summit in Geneva in June 2027. The Swiss President had attended the AI Summit in New Delhi in February this year. India’s focus was on cooperation in AI research and governance, responsible and ethical applications of emerging technologies, and skill development. He said, the Prime Minister conveyed India’s readiness to contribute and extend support to the successful holding of the Geneva Summit.
The Secretary (West) said, Switzerland is a popular destination for Indian tourists and film shooting productions. The Prime Minister invited participation from Switzerland’s creative industries in WAVES 2.0 next year. He said, last year, during WAVES, there was participation from Switzerland. The Prime Minister also invited Swiss universities to open campuses in India. He also urged Swiss companies, particularly in the financial sector, to participate in GIFT City in Gujarat.