Switzerland to explore defence procurement pact with EU

BERLIN -Switzerland will enter into exploratory talks with the European Union on a non-binding partnership to take part in arms procurement projects, the government said on Wednesday, as the neutral alpine nation seeks closer EU security ties.

Such partnerships are a prerequisite for non-EU countries to become involved with the bloc's cooperation projects, said the government, adding that the move was compatible with neutrality and would help strengthen its defence capabilities.

"Switzerland has an interest in greater cooperation with the EU, particularly in relation to armaments," it said, adding that the talks should be launched as soon as possible.

A partnership would allow Switzerland to negotiate better conditions for its industry's participation in EU defence procurement projects, it said.

"To date, the EU has concluded such partnerships with a number of countries, and further partnerships are in the pipeline," added the government.

Companies from countries that have signed such a pact with the EU are eligible to apply for the bloc's 150-billion-euro ($173.99 billion) arms fund, if they meet further conditions.

The Swiss government on Wednesday also approved a draft cooperation agreement with Ukraine on the reconstruction of the besieged country that would establish a legal basis for the Swiss private sector to become more closely involved. 

($1 = 0.8621 euros)

(Reporting by Miranda MurrayEditing by Ludwig Burger)