Hungary and Switzerland have concluded the Framework Agreement for the implementation of the Swiss Contribution
On November 8, 2022, the Framework Agreement on the Second Swiss-Hungarian Cooperation Programme was signed in a ceremonial setting, which enables Hungary to use 87.60 million Swiss francs until the end of 2029. The cooperation programme supports developments that contribute to economic growth, increased energy efficiency, environmental and health improvements, social inclusion, and stimulation of research and development and innovation. The Framework Agreement from the Hungarian side was signed by dr. Tibor Navracsics, Minister of Territorial Development and from the Swiss side by Jean-François Paroz, Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Hungary.
Switzerland and Hungary have been working together for more than 15 years in order to reduce economic and social disparities in Hungary. In the spirit of solidarity, Switzerland participates in bearing the costs associated with the enlargement of the Union, so the current period is the second one when our country benefits from the resources of the Swiss Contribution. The solemn signing ceremony of the Framework Agreement between the Swiss Federal Council and the Government of Hungary enabling the implementation of the Second Swiss-Hungarian Cooperation Programme was jointly arranged by the Embassy of Switzerland in Budapest and the Prime Minister's Office. The event took place within the framework of the Swiss-Hungarian Health Forum organized by the Swiss-Hungarian Chamber of Commerce.
At the event, on behalf of the Swiss government, Andrea Studer, Deputy Head of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, highlighted the importance of the Swiss-Hungarian bilateral cooperation in achieving Hungary’s strategic goals and strengthening European cohesion.
The CHF 87.60 million allocated to Hungary under the second Swiss Contribution will be used in the Second Swiss-Hungarian Cooperation Programme, with improvements expected in eight thematic areas as follows:
- Health and social protection
- Vocational and professional education and training
- Research and innovation
- Financing for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises
- Fight against human trafficking
- Energy efficiency and renewable energy
- Water and wastewater management
- Minorities and socially disadvantaged groups
Currently, the technical content of the thematic areas is being developed, and calls for proposals are expected to be published from the second quarter of next year.
The developments can be implemented until December 2029.
The full text of the Framework Agreement, news, application opportunities and other information can be found on the official website of the second Swiss-Hungarian Cooperation Programme – www.svajcialap.hu –, where it is also possible to subscribe to the newsletter.