Lisa Mazzone, president of the Swiss Greens, has sharply criticized a recent trade agreement between Switzerland and the United States, calling it a “treaty of submission.” The agreement, announced last Friday by Swiss Federal Councilor Guy Parmelin, reduces U.S. customs tariffs on Swiss goods from 39% to 15%.While othre parties have cautiously welcomed the deal, Mazzone’s strong condemnation signals a growing opposition stance from the Green party.
The lowered tariffs aim to ease trade tensions, but Mazzone argues the agreement comes at a meaningful cost to Swiss sovereignty and environmental standards. Her forceful rhetoric reflects a broader strategy by Les Verts to position themselves as a leading opposition force ahead of the next federal elections, potentially influencing future trade negotiations and policy decisions impacting Swiss industries and international relations.
Mazzone has become a frequent and vocal critic of the Federal Council, often directing her concerns toward Federal Councilor Albert Rösti. The Swiss Greens, with strong support in Geneva, are actively seeking to regain seats in the upcoming elections by highlighting perceived shortcomings in the government’s policies.