The Swiss government said in a statement that President Guy Parmelin joined Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in Kuwait on February 2, 2026, to commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Parmelin held talks with Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah during the visit, which also included meetings with representatives of Swiss companies operating in the Gulf state. The high-level engagements underscored the longstanding friendship and focused on ways to deepen bilateral ties across multiple sectors.
According to the Swiss federal authorities, economic cooperation formed a central theme of the discussions, supported by a robust legal framework that includes the free trade agreement between the European Free Trade Association and the Gulf Cooperation Council as well as accords on double taxation and investment protection. Both parties examined opportunities to expand collaboration in areas such as peace policy and international cooperation. Switzerland maintains dialogue with the regional office of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Kuwait to advance international humanitarian law throughout the Gulf region.
A memorandum of understanding between the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development was signed in May 2025 to bolster their partnership, the statement noted. The two sides also addressed international developments, including the situations in Gaza and Iran. President Parmelin reiterated Switzerland’s backing for a two-state solution in the Middle East and its readiness to provide good offices for dialogue.
In a related development during the visit, a memorandum of understanding on cooperation was concluded between ETH Zurich and Kuwaiti Danish Dairy, the Swiss authorities reported. The anniversary celebrations reflect relations that date back to Switzerland’s recognition of Kuwaiti independence in 1961, with full diplomatic ties established five years later. Kuwait became one of the first Gulf states to forge such links with Switzerland, setting the stage for decades of political dialogue and economic partnership.
Kuwaiti investments in Switzerland have grown substantially over the years, exceeding $15 billion according to figures highlighted during the bilateral meetings. The relationship deepened significantly after Switzerland welcomed Kuwaiti citizens during the 1990 Iraqi invasion, allowing students and others to extend their stays. Swiss authorities have pointed to this history as a foundation for the current strong bonds.
The Crown Prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, made a return visit to Switzerland on September 29, 2026, where he was received by President Parmelin, a Swiss press release issued the same day stated. The meetings emphasised further strengthening of economic links in sectors including healthcare, fintech, sustainable agriculture and food security. An agreement to promote investment was signed between Switzerland Global Enterprise and the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority during the encounter.
