Moldova, Switzerland to strengthen bilateral relations

A new round of inter-ministerial political consultations between Moldova and the Swiss Confederation took place in Bern today. The discussions were co-presided over by State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Carolina Perebinos and Deputy State Secretary and Head of the Eurasia Division at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland Muriel Peneveyre.

During the visit to Bern, the Moldovan official also had a bilateral meeting with State Secretary at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Alexandre Fasel. The sides reaffirmed the positive dynamics of Moldovan-Swiss relations and the mutual interest in deepening bilateral cooperation.

The agenda of the discussions included assessing progress in bilateral cooperation, strengthening political dialogue, expanding economic partnership and cooperation in various sectoral areas. The Moldovan delegation appreciated, in particular,  Switzerland's constant support in the process of the Moldova’s modernization, including through the launch of the new Swiss Cooperation Programme 2025–2028.

The delegations highlighted the need to boost the commercial relations by attracting investments and promoting exports, with a focus on leveraging the Free Trade Agreement with the member countries of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

Central topics included the bilateral agreement in the field of social protection, recently signed by the two states. The parties confirmed the advancement of internal ratification procedures and emphasized the positive impact of this agreement on citizens who have worked professionally in both countries.

Also, the officials discussed the regional security situation, the importance of combating corruption, strengthening resilience and countering hybrid threats.

In the context of Switzerland taking over the OSCE Chairmanship in 2026, the Moldovan delegation presented the latest developments in the Transnistrian settlement process, as well as Moldova's priorities for the reintegration of the country and the defense of human rights in the region. The sides agreed to maintain an active dialogue on this subject.

At the same time, the Moldovan officials presented the goals that will be promoted during the Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, a mandate that Moldova will hold as of November 2025 till May 2026.

At the conclusion of the consultations, the two delegations emphasized the good cooperation in international organizations and the mutual support provided to the candidacies of the two states in the elective structures of the United Nations. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to developing a sustainable partnership, based on mutual trust, common values and active political dialogue.