Evolution and trends in Polish-Swiss political, economic, cultural and scientific relations after 1989, including participation in international organizations

Abstract

Polish-Swiss contacts have a centuries-old tradition of trade, science, culture and diplomacy. The beginning of diplomatic contacts was Poland's regaining independence in 1918, which resulted in the establishment of official bilateral contacts, which was connected with the development of economic, scientific and cultural cooperation. Contacts between the states continued throughout the interwar period and the period of World War II, but were limited during the Cold War. Mutual contacts were revived after 1989. There were many official and working mutual visits of heads of state, representatives of governments and parliamentary groups. During the meetings, both bilateral and international issues were discussed. In the initial period, the cooperation between Poland and Switzerland was based on bilateral agreements, which – with Poland's accession to the EU – were replaced by Switzerland-EU agreements. Bilateral cooperation is maintained in the interstate area as well as within international and military organizations.