The United States of America is a major partner for Switzerland in all respects. Bilateral relations are highly diverse and have a long history. The number of US residents of Swiss origin is estimated to be around one million. The United States is Switzerland's second largest trading partner in the world and an important hub for education and research.
Bilateral relations Switzerland–United States of America
Key aspects of diplomatic relations
In 2006 the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding establishing regular political dialogue.
The Swiss Parliament and the US Congress maintain close ties through parliamentary friendship groups.
From 1961 to 2015, Switzerland represented US interests in Cuba and from 1991 to 2015 Cuba's interests in the United States. Since 1980, Switzerland has represented US interests in Iran.
Economic cooperation
In 2019, Switzerland was the sixth largest foreign investor in the United States, having invested a total of USD 298 billion. There has been a vigorous increase in trade between Switzerland and the United States in recent years. In 2020, Switzerland imported goods worth CHF 19.8 billion from the United States and exported goods worth CHF 68.8 billion.
Some 500 Swiss companies operate in the United States and are directly responsible for the creation of around 298,000 jobs. In 2019, there were almost 1,100 US companies operating in Switzerland, employing just under 100,000 people.
Information on countries, State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO
Cooperation in education, research and innovation
The United States is a key partner in the technology sector. The Swissnex locations in Boston and San Francisco and a bilateral science agreement (2009) testify to the close cooperation between the two countries.
Researchers and artists from the United States may apply to the State Secretariat for Education Research and Innovation (SERI) for Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships. A trainee exchange agreement also provides opportunities for young professionals.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists (SERI)
Swiss science centre in Boston and in San Francisco, Swissnex
Young professionals (trainees), State Secretariat for Migration SEM
Swiss nationals in the USA
Over 10% of Swiss nationals residing abroad live in the United States. Some 460,000 Swiss nationals emigrated to the United States between 1700 and 2018. At the end of 2020, there were 81,335 Swiss citizens registered in the country.
History of bilateral relations
Switzerland and the United States have enjoyed a relationship of friendship since the 19th century, founded on shared values in democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. Switzerland opened its first consulates in Washington D.C. and New York as early as 1822 and then, 60 years later in 1882, it opened its first embassy outside Europe in Washington D.C. The consulate general in Chicago was reopened in September 2019 (having been closed since 2014).
United States of America, historical Dictionary of Switzerland (de, fr, it)
Links
Information on countries, State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists (SERI)
Swiss science centre in Boston and in San Francisco, Swissnex
Young professionals (trainees), State Secretariat for Migration SEM
United States of America, historical Dictionary of Switzerland (de, fr, it)
