CommunicationPublished on 27 May 2026

Americas Strategy 2026–29: Switzerland strengthens partnerships in the Americas

Switzerland's Americas Strategy 2026–29 sets out its foreign policy priorities for the Americas region. This strategy aims to improve Switzerland's capacity to act in an increasingly competitive international environment. It focuses on the Americas' major political and economic actors and on clearly defined thematic priorities: peace and security, prosperity and competitiveness, the environment, democracy and governance and effective multilateralism. A stable environment, open markets, capacity for innovation and reliable partnerships remain key requirements in terms of Swiss foreign policy goals.

Panama City skyline, surrounded by tropical forest. — Switzerland's Americas Strategy 2026–29 aims to strengthen relations with the Americas, a region of great geopolitical and economic importance. — © istockphoto

The Federal Council adopted the Americas Strategy 2026–29 at its meeting on 27 May 2026. It is a geographical follow-up strategy to Switzerland's Foreign Policy Strategy 2024–27 and sets out strategic guidelines for Swiss foreign policy vis-à-vis the Americas.

Tensions and rivalry between major powers have grown more acute since the publication of the Americas Strategy 2022–25. Power is increasingly prevailing over the law, eroding international legal norms and making global politics less predictable. These developments are also having an impact on the Americas, a region of major political, economic and environmental importance. The US, which is prioritising national interests and transactional relationships, continues to play a highly influential role. China also wields great economic influence in Latin America, while other players are increasing their presence too. In light of these geopolitical rivalries, many states in the region are adopting a diversified approach towards their economic and security policy partnerships wherever possible.

Strong technological progress is being made, with the US acting as a driving force. The region possesses the raw materials and clean energy required to drive this transformation forward. Regional trends such as migration due to political crises, climate change or economic inequality, a significant security threat from organised crime, and political polarisation and corruption present major challenges for many states.

Focus on key partner states

Switzerland prioritises the region's five G20 states: the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina. They are key partners in terms of Swiss interests in view of their economic, scientific and geopolitical significance.

Switzerland has very close relations with the US. After the EU, it is Switzerland's biggest export market and a major location for Swiss investment. Switzerland aims to reduce trade barriers, improve economic conditions and step up collaboration on research, innovation and vocational training. Security policy dialogue formats are being expanded too. Switzerland continues to provide good offices, for example by acting as the US's protecting power in Iran.

Swiss relations with Canada are centred on updating existing agreements, including the free trade agreement between EFTA and Canada. Cooperation on research and innovation will also be stepped up, especially in climate and sustainability, life sciences, artificial intelligence and quantum technology.

Swiss cooperation with Mexico focuses on economic affairs and trade, in particular the updating of the EFTA free trade agreement and the investment promotion and protection agreement. Cooperation on climate protection will also be strengthened and political dialogue on human rights continued.

Brazil is a key partner in view of its economic importance, significance as a regional actor and crucial role in protecting the Amazon basin. Switzerland is advocating for the entry into force of the EFTA-MERCOSUR free trade agreement, promoting cooperation on research, innovation and environmental issues, and continuing dialogue on human rights.

Economic cooperation with Argentina is another key priority. In addition to the EFTA-MERCOSUR agreement, Switzerland is supporting Argentina with the OECD accession process and is deepening political dialogue.

Domestic tensions and organised crime, rather than conflicts between states, present the greatest security risks in the Americas. Drug trafficking, illegal mining and transnational criminal networks represent major challenges for many states.
Switzerland is contributing its experience in peacebuilding and diplomacy. It provides good offices, supports dialogue processes and assists with humanitarian aid – for example in crisis situations, such as in Haiti. Switzerland has a firm commitment in Colombia, where it supports peace processes and is helping to implement the 2016 peace agreement.
Economic cooperation is another major priority. Switzerland is seeking to diversify its trade relations with the Americas and improve the economic environment for Swiss companies. Free trade and investment agreements play a key role in achieving this. Switzerland is also promoting sustainable economic models and responsible business practices, for example in the commodities sector.
It is endeavouring to create optimal conditions for scientific collaboration with universities, research institutions and centres of innovation.
The Americas have great ecological resources and play a vital role in global climate and biodiversity protection. Switzerland is consolidating its activities on climate change, disaster risk reduction and environmental affairs at a thematic hub based in Lima.
In Latin America, Switzerland is also implementing bilateral climate protection agreements in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, and supporting biodiversity conservation projects – particularly in the Amazon basin – and programmes on the sustainable use of resources and water management.
Promoting democracy, human rights and good governance remains a major part of Swiss foreign policy. Switzerland supports democratic institutions, participates in election observation missions and assists in the fight against corruption.
Finally, Switzerland supports effective multilateralism. It works with partner states in the Americas in international organisations to address issues concerning international law, human rights, environmental policy and international security. It also supports regional organisations, such as the Organization of American States, through projects to promote democracy or election observation.