NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – On October 5, India and Switzerland formalized five partnership agreements following discussions in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin led the negotiations during Parmelin’s three-day state visit. The accords encompass migration, young professionals, transport, scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer. The leaders also examined trade, investment, defence, nuclear energy, and artificial intelligence. Parmelin’s trip marks his first state visit to India and his second visit to the country in 2026.
The migration partnership introduces multiple-entry visas valid up to five years, with visits permitted for as long as six months. It also offers renewable one-year permits for students. A dedicated Young Professionals Scheme will initially admit 300 participants from each nation annually, with the potential to increase the quota to 500 later. This program provides young professionals with temporary employment opportunities aimed at enhancing their careers and language skills. Additionally, the migration framework addresses issues such as irregular migration, human trafficking, document fraud, and the readmission of nationals required to leave the country.
An agreement on transport and infrastructure promotes collaboration on electric vehicles, ropeways, tunnels, and circular economy applications. India’s Department of Science and Technology also signed a research Letter of Intent with the Swiss National Science Foundation. Furthermore, another arrangement connects the department with Zurich University of Applied Sciences through the Indo-Swiss Academia-Industry Training programme. This initiative supports innovation, technology transfer, and science-based startups. The two nations also announced an Indo-Swiss Research Flagship initiative focusing on sectors such as health, clean energy, and space.
Trade agreement enhances economic collaboration
The discussions took place shortly after the one-year anniversary of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement coming into effect. This agreement was implemented on October 1, 2025. EFTA comprises Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Its investment framework aims to attract $100 billion in investments into India over 15 years and create one million direct jobs. Switzerland confirmed that its implementation remains on schedule. Negotiations are also underway for a new bilateral investment protection agreement, with the Swiss government describing those talks as advanced.
Modi highlighted that both countries have taken measures to improve Swiss market access for Indian agricultural goods, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering products. He also pointed out Swiss investment prospects in biotechnology, life sciences, banking, insurance, food processing, and sustainability. India has extended invitations for Swiss involvement in infrastructure design, manufacturing, and skills development. Existing projects include the Varanasi ropeway, Noida International Airport, railway initiatives, and mountain tunnelling. According to Swiss government data, around 350 Swiss companies operate in India through subsidiaries, branches, and joint ventures.
Defense, energy, and global issues discussed
The leaders also explored broader military cooperation and defence manufacturing, although these topics did not result in formal agreements. They agreed to strengthen collaboration in nuclear energy and continue dialogue on artificial intelligence. Switzerland plans to host the Geneva AI Summit in spring 2027, following India’s 2026 AI meeting. Both governments also discussed joint research efforts and responsible, inclusive approaches to artificial intelligence. These conversations complemented the new agreements on mobility, science, transport, and innovation.
During their meeting, Modi and Parmelin also addressed issues related to Ukraine, West Asia, multilateral organizations, and global governance. India stated that both nations support dialogue, diplomacy, and reforms within international institutions. Parmelin, accompanied by business and scientific representatives, will participate in the second India-EFTA Prosperity Summit on October 7. The event aims to bring together government officials and business leaders to discuss investment opportunities and cooperation under the trade agreement. His schedule also includes a visit to Noida International Airport, operated by a Zurich Airport subsidiary.