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Paris, July 1st (OLA NEWS) – The Élysée Palace hosted Swiss President Viola Amherd on Tuesday for a significant diplomatic meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, underscoring the importance of Franco-Swiss relations amid evolving European challenges.
This official visit marks President Amherd’s first trip to France since taking office and comes at a crucial time for both countries. The agenda focused on strengthening cross-border cooperation, economic ties, and addressing ongoing negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union. Recent tensions regarding bilateral agreements have made this encounter essential to clarify future collaboration on issues such as security, energy transition, and innovation. Both leaders aimed to reinforce their partnership in a context marked by migration pressures and climate concerns.
The visit featured a formal welcome ceremony at the Élysée, with senior officials present to witness the exchange. The meeting highlighted the deep historical and economic connections between France and Switzerland, as well as the strategic importance of maintaining open dialogue. The discussions are expected to influence the stalled negotiations on institutional agreements, potentially advancing cooperation on trade, research, and citizens’ rights. This engagement is seen as a key step toward ensuring stability and stronger ties within the broader European framework.
Reporting and pictures by Arnaud Vilette, Laura L’helgoualch, OLA NEWS Paris; editing by Alexandre Minguez.
