During its external meeting in Tenerife, the CIVEX Commission adopted today by unanimity the opinion "Enhancing the territorial dimension of the EU-Switzerland relationship" by ECR Rapporteur Matteo Bianchi. 

"With this opinion we want to strengthen cooperation between the EU and Switzerland, enhancing the role of European local and regional authorities and the Swiss cantons, key partners in multi-level governance", said Mr Bianchi following the vote. 

The rapporteur highlighted the importance "to work with Switzerland for the many shared interests such as mobility, infrastructure and management of the Schengen area in full respect of Swiss federalism and active subsidiarity".

According to Mr Bianchi having stronger ties with Switzerland means "building a more competitive, cohesive and close to the citizens Europe". The opinion will be voted by the European Committee of the Regions' plenary session in October.