UAE And Switzerland Strengthen Bilateral Ties Through AI, Investment And Water Cooperation
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met His Excellency Guy Parmelin, President of the Swiss Confederation, for talks focused on strengthening UAE-Switzerland relations, with priority on economic cooperation, investment flows, advanced technology partnerships, and artificial intelligence initiatives benefiting both countries and their wider regions.
The discussions at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi also addressed joint diplomatic interests. Both sides exchanged assessments on regional and international developments, stressing that dialogue and negotiated solutions are essential to support global peace, security, and long-term stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
A key outcome of the meeting was the announcement of new bilateral frameworks. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade and Switzerland’s Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research agreed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint economic committee, designed to coordinate policies, identify opportunities, and enhance trade and investment links.
The two delegations also confirmed a Letter of Intent between the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation. This document covers cooperation on water-related issues and the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6, which targets universal access to safe water and adequate sanitation services.
| Agreement | UAE Entity | Swiss Entity | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memorandum of Understanding | Ministry of Foreign Trade | Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research | Joint economic committee, trade and investment |
| Letter of Intent | Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Federal Department of Foreign Affairs | Water cooperation and SDG 6 implementation |
Artificial intelligence featured strongly in the talks. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed and President Parmelin highlighted their shared interest in harnessing AI to address global challenges, support innovation, and promote sustainable economic development that delivers benefits for their populations and for other partner countries.
The leaders discussed the Global AI Summit, planned for Geneva in 2027 and the UAE in 2028. His Highness underlined that both states are committed to advancing AI applications responsibly and using digital technologies to support inclusive growth, international collaboration, and shared prosperity.
UAE-Switzerland artificial intelligence agenda within wider bilateral relations
During the meeting, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed welcomed President Parmelin and congratulated him on the election as President of the Swiss Confederation for 2026. His Highness confirmed a strong interest in working closely with President Parmelin to deepen bilateral ties and broaden cooperation sectors.
The two sides reaffirmed that AI should be used to develop practical solutions for common global issues, including sustainability and development needs. They agreed that joint projects and knowledge exchange can help shape a prosperous and environmentally responsible future for all communities, reflecting shared strategic priorities.
The session was attended by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs. Several ministers, senior UAE officials, and members of the Swiss delegation were also present during the discussions.
Overall, the meeting strengthened the UAE-Switzerland partnership, combining advanced technology and artificial intelligence cooperation with new economic and water agreements. Both governments restated their commitment to closer coordination, supporting sustainable development, and contributing to international stability through constructive political dialogue and practical sectoral initiatives.
With inputs from WAM
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