From the economic, political, social, cultural and scientific perspectives, the community of states of the European Union (EU) plays an important role for Switzerland. The EU shares values, languages and part of its history with Switzerland. Its central position, its stature as an economic and financial centre and its involvement in foreign affairs make Switzerland an important partner for the EU, too.

The EU is Switzerland’s main trading partner. Roughly 60% of Swiss exports go to the EU area and, conversely, 80% of its imports are from EU countries. Alongside the USA, China and Russia, Switzerland is the EU’s most important trading partner. Switzerland has regulated its cooperation with the EU in a series of bilateral treaties, and its next European policy steps will be to implement, efficiently apply and safeguard these agreements. Where mutually beneficial, cooperation with the EU can be deepened further in additional agreements.

As a community of states, the EU is unique in the world. It comprises 27 Member States and accession negotiations are underway with more countries. As a political and economic heavyweight in Europe, the EU guarantees stability, security and shared prosperity on the Continent. For that reason, a strong EU is also in Switzerland’s interests.

The EU is also a major player on the global stage. Its foreign policy objectives are similar to Switzerland’s, giving priority to global stability, security and peace.