Swiss-EU Agreement Gains Wide Approval

The Swiss government's proposed agreement with the EU has received broad support from various consulted groups, the Federal Council announced. The agreement, which covers multiple sectors such as electricity, transport, and financial contributions, aims to strengthen Swiss-EU ties, providing certainty for Swiss businesses dependent on the EU market.

The Swiss government has garnered strong backing for its new proposed agreement with the European Union, as confirmed by the cabinet on Friday. The ruling Federal Council has received more than 300 responses expressing support for the overhaul of their relations with the EU, negotiated last year.

Addressing key areas such as electricity, state aid, and freedom of movement, in addition to Bern's financial contributions to the bloc, the plan is seen as a move to draw Switzerland and the EU closer. The agreement is expected to provide added certainty for Swiss companies that rely heavily on the 27-nation alliance for their business operations.

A recent interim report by the Federal Council indicates that a significant majority of consultation participants view the Swiss-EU package and the resulting negotiations positively. This development signals a strengthened partnership between Bern and Brussels.

(With inputs from agencies.)