A head-to-head had previously been planned for January during the annual general meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, but it fell through because the US government shutdown meant Trump stayed at home.
The two leaders are expected to discuss various bilateral issues as well as the possibility of a free-trade agreement. Efforts to revive a deal, following the collapse of a previous attempt in 2006, have so far made slow progress.
Venezuela could also be on the agenda. Last month Switzerland agreed to represent the interests of the United States in the South American country under a “good offices” agreement. Venezuela has not yet responded to the US request.
Agriculture could also be a topic for the meeting. Although Swiss farmers have historically been wary of a trade deal with the US, they would also stand to gain from it, Edward McMullen, US Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, told swissinfo.ch in a recent interview.
Tariffs on metal – and Trump’s mixed messages regarding them – are another potential discussion topic. In July, Switzerland initiated a World Trade Organization dispute settlement procedureExternal link following Trump’s announcement on import duties. Switzerland exported steel products worth about CHF80 million ($80 million) last year.
With his visit to Washington, Maurer is once again meeting one of the most powerful politicians in the world. At the end of April he met Chinese President Xi Jinping on a state visit to Beijing.
More
More
Swiss media slam Trump, ‘Putin’s useful idiot’
This content was published on
Swiss newspapers have lambasted US President Donald Trump for siding with long-time enemy Russia over his own intelligence agencies.
Natural disasters cause billions in damage worldwide
This content was published on
In the first six months of the year, natural disasters caused billions in losses worldwide, with severe thunderstorms in the USA being a major factor, according to a Swiss Re Institute press release on Wednesday.
Rear seat belts save lives: a 30-year Swiss milestone
This content was published on
For 30 years now, seat belts have been compulsory in the rear seats of cars in Switzerland. Current data from the Swiss Council for Accident Prevention (BFU) and the Federal Statistical Office confirm the effectiveness of this road safety measure.
Women receive fewer painkillers than men in emergencies
This content was published on
The situation is similar in Switzerland. Three years ago, a study from Swiss intensive care units showed that women had a lower chance of receiving intensive medical care than men.
Locarno Film Festival opens with 225 screenings, 104 world premieres
This content was published on
The 77th edition of the Locarno Film Festival opens today, marking the beginning of the Maja Hoffmann era. Situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore, the eagerly awaited festival features a packed programme: 225 screenings over 10 days, including 104 world premieres.
Swiss breast cancer screening quality varies across cantons
This content was published on
The quality of breast cancer screening programmes in Switzerland varies from canton to canton. However, according to a study published on Tuesday, the results align with the European standard.
Swiss army neutralised 280 unexploded ordnances in 2023
This content was published on
The Swiss army neutralised 280 unexploded ordnance last year. A total of 1,122 reports were received, a record figure attributed to increased leisure activities and greater public awareness of this danger.
Switzerland closely monitoring Bangladesh amidst political turmoil
This content was published on
Switzerland has been "concerned and affected by the unprecedented loss of life since mid-July," said the Swiss foreign ministry.
Adecco faces continued challenges amid sales decline and cost cuts
This content was published on
The job placement agency, Adecco Group's business remained challenging in the second quarter of 2024, with the personnel services provider continuing to anticipate difficulties in the third quarter.
UN investigates UNRWA staff involvement in October 7 Hamas attack
This content was published on
Nine employees of the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) "may have been involved" in the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, according to the UN's internal investigation. This involved 19 people accused by Israel.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Why Trump’s absence could benefit Davos
This content was published on
If this year’s World Economic Forum does indeed take place without US President Donald Trump, it won’t matter too much, say some Swiss media.
This content was published on
Swiss access to global markets will be a priority when President Schneider-Ammann has his first talk with US President-elect Trump.
Switzerland’s 19 living ex-presidents: a world record
This content was published on
Nineteen former Swiss presidents are still alive. What does this record say about the country’s political stability and leadership?
Swiss finance minister sees ‘clearly improved’ ties with US
This content was published on
Relations between Switzerland and the United States have improved under Donald Trump, says Swiss Finance Minister Ueli Maurer.
This content was published on
He expressed his sympathy to those affected and to their families, the Swiss News agency reported. Earlier on Tuesday Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter, speaking to Switzerland’s House of Representatives, condemned the attacks with the “utmost determination” and called for international resolve against terrorism. Lukas Wyniger, a runner and radio DJ from Switzerland who took part…
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.