Switzerland–France: close cooperation facing common challenges
Bern, 08.05.2026 — The head of the FDFA, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, received the French minister for Europe and foreign affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, in Geneva for an exchange of views on cross-border issues, G7 and the major challenges facing Europe. In a geopolitical context marked by the war in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East and shifts in transatlantic relations, Switzerland and France underscored their desire to work together for a more stable, secure and competitive Europe, and for effective multilateralism anchored in Geneva.
The meeting highlighted the breadth and depth of bilateral and cross-border relations. Mr Cassis and Mr Barrot discussed the implementation of the agreements on governance of the waters of the Rhône and Lake Geneva, signed in September 2025 in Geneva. Mr Cassis also stressed the importance of rapidly finalising negotiations on the management of the waters of the Doubs.
Relations with the EU
Mr Cassis briefed his French counterpart on the progress of parliamentary work on the ‘Stabilisation and further development of Swiss–EU relations’ package (Bilaterals III). Switzerland also highlighted its contribution to European competitiveness. In addition, discussions focused on the European Political Community summit to be held in Switzerland in 2027.
International Geneva and the AI summit in Geneva
Mr Cassis also highlighted the importance of International Geneva for effective, targeted multilateralism. Regarding the AI summit to be held in Geneva in 2027, Switzerland expressed its desire to link it to previous editions, in particular the Paris summit of 2025. Establishing stable processes for global discussions on the governance of AI is a key priority for Switzerland, and Geneva – as the global centre for multilateral dialogue – is the ideal place to carry out this work.
G7 summit in Évian
The two ministers discussed the ongoing cooperation between Switzerland and France on security and the organisation of the summit. They emphasised the importance of mutual support in ensuring a successful and incident-free G7 summit. France welcomed Switzerland’s commitment and expressed its willingness to raise its profile, as well as that of International Geneva, during the summit.
Geopolitical context
The head of Swiss diplomacy and his counterpart also discussed current international affairs, in particular the situation in the Middle East and transatlantic relations. Their talks also focused on the war in Ukraine. Furthermore, as chair of the OSCE in 2026, Switzerland reaffirmed its commitment to a solid European security architecture and to respect for international law, in particular international humanitarian law.
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