Switzerland and the «Russian Elites, Proxies and Oligarchs» (REPO)

The REPO Task Force was set up by the G7 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States) and the EU together with Australia. Cooperation at the technical level is running smoothly, and Switzerland therefore sees no need to formally join the REPO Task Force at present. Should membership prove to be in Switzerland's interest in the future, the Federal Council may re-evaluate the situation.

Position of the EAER and SECO of 18 April 2023.

Governments of Canada and Switzerland sign joint statement on science, technology and innovation

On 14 April 2023, Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin and the Canadian Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, François‑Philippe Champagne, agreed to increase science, technology and innovation research partnerships between the two countries.            

Switzerland and Colombia to strengthen bilateral research and innovation cooperation

Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin welcomed Colombia’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Arturo Luna on a courtesy visit to Bern on 1 March. Mr Luna also met with State Secretary Martina Hirayama. The talks focused on strengthening bilateral research and innovation cooperation between the two countries.

Switzerland – UK: Federal Council approves negotiating mandate

At its meeting on 15 February, the Federal Council approved the mandate to launch negotiations on enhancing the bilateral trade agreement between Switzerland and the United Kingdom (UK). The decision is subject to consultation with the relevant parliamentary committees and the Conference of Cantonal Governments.