June 25, 2025|
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|5 months agoSwitzerland signals interest in EU defense partnership
Federal Council approves exploration of security cooperation with EU, emphasizing compatibility with neutrality and potential joint defense procurement opportunities.
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Generated IllustrationKey Takeaways
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- The Swiss Federal Council has officially approved exploratory talks for a security and defence partnership with the European Union.
- The proposed partnership is a prerequisite for Switzerland to participate in joint defense procurements with EU states.
- The partnership would allow access to the EU's SAFE (Security Action for Europe) instrument.
- The agreement is a non-legally binding declaration of intent.
- Switzerland's neutrality has been internationally recognized since 1815.
By The Numbers
150 billion euros
loan capacity
53 percent
public support
32 percent
public support
2 days
time difference
They Said
"A partnership of this kind is a prerequisite for any joint procurements in the defence sector. It is compatible with neutrality and helps to strengthen Switzerland's defence capabilities."
"Due to the dynamic developments in international armaments cooperation, exploratory talks should be launched as soon as possible."
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