Federal Council approves definitive negotiating mandate

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In the course of the current talks, Switzerland and the EU have reached a common understanding regarding the Federal Council's package approach. For more background and information on the talks, which started in March 2022, visit the news ticker here. © FDFA

Negotiations will begin as soon as the European Commission has adopted its own definitive mandate, expected sometime in March 2024.

Apart from the FACs, seven other parliamentary committees wished to be consulted on the draft negotiating mandate. The social and economic partners were also invited to express their views. Numerous other interest groups and umbrella associations have also expressed their views to the Federal Council.

The Federal Council notes that the vast majority of stakeholders consulted support the opening of negotiations with the EU on the basis of the package approach. After analysing the views expressed in the consultation, the government has decided to adopt a large proportion of the recommendations, which will thus clarify the draft negotiating mandate of 15 December 2023.

The recommendations that were not adopted concern elements that are not in line with the core objectives of the package, in particular in the electricity sector, such as proposals to exclude electricity production from the scope of the agreement or not to take market liberalisation measures.

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