French president pays state visit to Switzerland

French President Francois Hollande on Wednesday kicked off a two-day state visit to Switzerland, the first visit by a French president to Switzerland since 1998.

According to the Switzerland government, EU policy, cooperation on international issues and economic relations are among the key topics to be addressed during Hollande's visit.

"This state visit could mark the opening of a new phase in Franco-Swiss relations - a phase which should be characterised by trust, friendship and cordiality," said Swiss President Simonetta Sommaruga.

The president added that good Franco-Swiss relations also have an influence on Switzerland's cooperation with the whole of the European Union.

An official source from the Swiss federal government said that relations between Switzerland and the EU figured among the main topics during the official talks. The delegations also discussed European migration policy and international security.

"Exchanges on economic issues also featured high on the agenda covering aspects such as successful economic cooperation, education and training, and research," The source said.

According to the source, sustainable development and climate protection are also key concerns for both countries, with both sides recognising the central importance of the UN climate conference in Paris 2015, where a new international climate protection agreement is to be adopted. Endit