Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation

Salient Points of PM Narendra Modi’s Press Statement during the state visit of The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard on 31st Aug, 2017

  • India is not new to you; you have already visited the country several times in the past. However, your India visit as a President is taking place at a time when we are celebrating the festival of completion of 70 years of India’s independence.
  • This is also the time of completion of seven decades of Indo-Swiss Treaty of Friendship & Establishment.
  • We hope that during this visit you would feel the same warmth and hospitality that we have felt during our visit to Switzerland in 2016.
  • Today, we had a comprehensive and meaningful discussion on bilateral, regional and global issues. Our strong bilateral relations have progressed further through this visit.
  • The issues like disarmament and geographical expansion are extremely important for both Switzerland and India. In this context, we are extremely grateful to Switzerland for supporting India’s entry into the MTCR.
  • Last year, we had signed a joint statement for automatic exchange of tax related information. Under this agreement, the information will be automatically shared with us upon completion of the internal processes of Switzerland. Foreign Direct Investment is a crucial basis for our economic relations and India particularly welcomes the Swiss investors.
  • In this context, we have agreed to continue to discuss about the requirement of a new bilateral investment treaty. There are several opportunities for the Swiss companies to become a partner in India’s growth and development.
  • India’s traditional medicines, particularly Ayurveda, can play an important role in sustaining the health and wellness. I’m happy that Switzerland has recognized Ayurveda and it is keen to have more cooperation in this important sector.
  • Initiatives like International Solar Alliance and our efforts to achieve the target of generating 175 Giga Watt of renewable energy by 2022 reflect India’s commitment to clean energy and green future.
  • I’m confident that this visit of yours will be helpful in taking our relations to a new height. I thank Madame President for an extremely meaningful discussion and I’m keen to jointly work with you in the coming months.
  • Once again I heartily welcome you and wish you to have a meaningful visit to India.