Embassy of India, Berne, initiated a new beginning in India - Switzerland Defence Industrial Partnership, on 18 March 2024 with the first ever Seminar on “Opportunities in Indian Defence Production Sector” at The Circle Convention Center, Zurich Airport. Mission organised the seminar in collaboration with Ministry of Defence, Government of India, Society of India Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) & Association for Swiss Industry Participation in Security and Defence Procurement Programs (ASIPRO).
In his opening speech, Ambassador Kumar invited Swiss participation in Indian defence production through niche technology and investments. Ambassador also highlighted the significance of the recently signed Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with EFTA States, which offers vast avenues for closer India - Switzerland defence cooperation.
From the Swiss side the seminar attracted enthusiastic and meaningful participation from defence industry players as also from Armauisse, SwissASD (Aeronautics, Security and Defence) group, Association for Swiss Industry Participation in Security & Defence Procurement programs (ASIPRO). From the Indian side besides an official delegation from Ministry of Defence, Government of India, participants from defence PSUs like HAL, BEL, MIL, YIL, MKU Ltd., UPEIDA, TIDCO, TASL and NRT also attended the seminar. Swiss stakeholders expressed keen interest to partner with and invest in India’s growing Defence Production Sector and thereby build resilient defence supply chains. During the seminar, policymakers, industry representatives and other stakeholders discussed complimentarities and capabilities of India & Swiss Defence Production Sector, investments in Defence Industrial Corridors in India that further aimed towards boosting supply chain resilience.
On 19 March 2024, the Indian delegation was hosted by two leading Swiss defense & aerospace sector players Franke Industries and Loft Dynamics. The Swiss companies showcased their cutting edge, innovative solutions and advanced production facilities. Indian delegation had a fruitful learning and exchange of technology and business perspectives.
