Switzerland moves toward EU arms cooperation while maintaining neutrality

Switzerland is taking steps toward deeper defence cooperation with the European Union, launching talks on a non-binding arms partnership while maintaining its neutral stance.

Plans for exploratory talks with the EU, for a non-binding partnership that would allow the country to participate in EU arms procurement projects, were announced by the Swiss government on Wednesday.

While Switzerland is not a member of the EU, it expressed strong interest in strengthening security ties and defence capabilities through cooperation that remains compatible with its long-standing neutrality.

Such a partnership would improve the chances for Swiss defence companies to join the EU’s €150 billion ($174 billion) arms fund and negotiate better terms for participation. Similar agreements have already been signed with other non-EU countries, and more are expected.

In a separate move, the Swiss government also approved a draft agreement with Ukraine aimed at facilitating Swiss private sector involvement in the war-torn country’s reconstruction efforts.

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