Amherd said the Russian invasions of Ukraine made it clear that Switzerland should seek closer cooperation, including the US, she told a news conference in Washington on Friday.
But she reiterated that neutral Switzerland had not plans of joining the 28-member NATO alliance.
She was addressing the media following a meeting with the US deputy defence minister, Kathleen Hicks.
The talks also covered security concerns caused by climate change and promoting participation of women in the armed forces.
Switzerland is to buy 36 F-35 fighter jets as well as air defence systems from the US following a nationwide vote in 2020.
A pacifist group launched a people’s initiative trying to block the purchase, prompting concerns the deal might be delayed.
Hicks said the acquisition would not only increase Switzerland’s sovereign defence capabilities, but also boost interoperability with other European partners and the US, according to a statement by the US defence ministry.
Switzerland commits CHF50 million to combat rural poverty worldwide
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The Federal Council approved a contribution of CHF49.5 million ($54.1 million) for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Arrests made in raid against Turkish criminal organisation
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A cross-border raid against a Turkish criminal organisation was conducted, including property searches in cantons Aargau and Zurich.
Up to 4,000 Swiss army soldiers to protect Ukraine peace conference
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The Federal Council has authorised deployment of army personnel for the Ukraine peace conference on the Bürgenstock in June.
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The business association, Swissmem, reports that there are increasing signs that the bottom of the downturn will be reached this year.
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Is Switzerland moving towards a European security alliance?
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Calls for more military cooperation are getting louder in Switzerland. How far can the country bend its traditional policy of neutrality?
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Defence Minister Viola Amherd is standing by the government’s decision to buy F-35A jets despite pushback from a left-wing coalition.
Swiss defence minister repeats calls for stronger army
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The Swiss armed forces need to be boosted and better prepared, argues Defence Minister Viola Amherd. Nato membership however is “not an option”.
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