With 330 to 104 votes FDP approves EU treaties
The FDP supports the EU treaties in principle. This was decided by the delegates in Bern on Saturday by 330 votes to 104.
18.10.2025, 13:23
SDA
The FDP supports the EU treaties in principle. This was decided by the delegates in Bern on Saturday by 330 votes to 104. Nine delegates abstained from voting.
Supporters and opponents had previously crossed swords in a two-hour debate. The continuation of the bilateral approach was not an option, but a strategic necessity, said National Councillor and entrepreneur Simon Michel from Solothurn.
The FDP had drawn up a list of demands for the negotiations with the EU in 2022, said Neuchâtel National Councillor and parliamentary group leader Damien Cottier. The demands had been met.
Opponents warned against the treaty package. Acceptance would perhaps initially stabilize relations with the EU, said Zurich city councillor Filippo Leutenegger. However, this would be followed by bureaucratization. Parliament and the rights of the people would also be weakened.
Cassis: Direct democracy remains
Bernese National Councillor Christian Wasserfallen warned against becoming "irreversibly" tied to the EU. Although there are problems with the USA at the moment, "Washington has an expiration date". With the EU, there is much more to it in terms of time.
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis made a strong case for the treaties. Without new agreements, the bilateral approach would expire. Switzerland would then gradually lose its privileged access to the European single market.
The package strengthens independence, because only an economically strong country can remain sovereign. "And very importantly: our direct democracy will remain intact."
It remains to be seen whether the FDP will demand a double majority of the people and cantons in the referendum. This question will be decided in the afternoon.
