ZURICH – Switzerland and the European Union announced Thursday their intention to strengthen collaboration on security and defense matters, with plans to share more information about global conflict zones from Ukraine to the Middle East.
The announcement came through a joint declaration released after diplomatic meetings in Zurich between Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.
According to a draft of the agreement, the top diplomatic officials from both sides plan to establish annual dialogue sessions and increase information sharing regarding regions of mutual concern, including Ukraine, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Latin America and the United States.
The partnership will enhance collaboration on foreign policy, security and defense matters, with Swiss officials receiving invitations to participate in EU Foreign Affairs Council meetings and related preparatory sessions when deemed appropriate.
The cooperation framework also covers areas such as human rights initiatives, peace mediation efforts, multilateral affairs, restrictive measures, consular services, and international crisis management.
The agreement outlines plans to increase coordination between EU diplomatic missions and Swiss embassies and diplomatic posts in third countries and international organizations.
