President Droupadi Murmu and Swiss President Guy Parmelin on Monday, 5 October 2026, agreed that deeper bilateral engagement in science and technology, innovation, and clean and green energy holds immense potential for the people of both nations. The two leaders met at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, where President Murmu hosted a state banquet in Parmelin's honour.

What the Two Leaders Agreed On

According to a statement issued by the President's Secretariat on X, both heads of state underscored that closer cooperation across science, technology, innovation, and clean energy could deliver significant benefits to their respective populations. The meeting at Rashtrapati Bhavan was preceded by a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi also joining President Murmu in receiving the Swiss President.

What Parmelin Said

Speaking to reporters following the ceremonial welcome, Parmelin described the visit as 'an excellent opportunity to emphasise the importance that both Switzerland and India attach to this relationship.' He noted that ties between the two countries rest on 'shared democratic values as well as on trust and mutual respect.'

'My visit is a stepping stone towards further growth, deepening and strengthening of our close, broad and long-standing partnership. I am pleased and honoured that we have the chance to exchange views on matters of bilateral and global importance,' Parmelin said.

The Swiss President also highlighted a symbolic milestone, stating he was 'especially glad' that his stay in India would allow both sides to 'commemorate the first anniversary of the entry into force of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA).'

Scope and Focus of the State Visit

Parmelin arrived in India on Monday for a three-day State visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi. The visit is focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, science and technology, innovation, and mobility. This is his first State visit to India, though it marks his second trip this year — he had previously visited New Delhi in February 2026 to participate in the AI Impact Summit.

Why This Visit Matters

The timing of the visit carries added significance: it coincides with the first anniversary of TEPA, the trade and economic partnership signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), of which Switzerland is a leading member. The agreement, which came into force last year, is viewed as a template for India's broader engagement with non-EU European economies. This comes amid India's active pursuit of free trade partnerships with multiple blocs, making the Swiss visit a signal of continued diplomatic momentum.

Notably, Parmelin's participation in the AI Impact Summit earlier this year had already elevated the technology dimension of the relationship, and this State visit appears designed to consolidate those ties at the highest level. Both nations are expected to formalise further frameworks for cooperation before Parmelin concludes his visit.