After many years, the negotiations have now been concluded: The EU and Switzerland want to permanently consolidate their partnership. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Swiss President Viola Amherd sealed the political agreement in Bern on Friday. Both sides expressed their satisfaction. Von der Leyen spoke of a „historic agreement“ and referred to the geopolitical environment of growing tensions. Against this backdrop, a stronger partnership was imperative. Amherd also spoke of a milestone „in the stabilization and further development“ of the bilateral relationship.