The Republic of Singapore and the Swiss Confederation sign Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance in...

21 January 2026 Posted in Press releases

1. The Government of the Republic of Singapore and the Swiss Confederation signed the Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters (the "Treaty") today.

2. The Treaty was signed by Singapore's Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs Edwin Tong SC and Switzerland's Head of the Federal Department of Justice and Police, Federal Councillor H.E Beat Jans as part of Minister Tong's official visit to Switzerland from 20 to 23 January 2026.

3. The Treaty will enhance Switzerland and Singapore's already strong partnership in combatting transborder crime. It places existing cooperation in mutual legal assistance matters under a mutually agreed framework, and streamlines the process for both countries to make requests for and provide legal assistance in criminal matters to each other. This includes obtaining information and evidence, executing searches and seizures, and restraining and confiscating property traceable to proceeds of crime.

4. Minister Tong said, "As leading global financial hubs, Singapore and Switzerland share a fundamental commitment to upholding the integrity of and trust in our legal and financial systems. This Treaty represents more than our joint determination to combat transborder crime. It also reflects the deep bilateral partnership we have built based on mutual trust and cooperation."

5. In addition to the signing of the Treaty, Minister Tong will attend the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting held in Davos. Minister Tong will speak at a panel titled "Is Democracy in Trouble?" at the Annual Meeting.

6. Minister Tong is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with the Minister of Investment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia H.E Eng. Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih, Minister of Commerce of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia H.E Dr. Majid Al-Kassabi and Minister of State and Secretary General of The United Arab Emirates Cabinet H.E Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi to discuss potential areas of cooperation, at the sidelines of the Annual Meeting.

7. Minister Tong is accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Law.

MINISTRY OF LAW
21 JANUARY 2026

Last updated on 21 January 2026