19/01/2001 (Agence Europe) - Developments in relations between the EU and Switzerland depend on a rapid solution to judicial cooperation in combating tax fraud. This is the message that the Commission (represented by Mr. Westerlund) told a Swiss delegation (led by Mr. Ambuhl) at a meeting in Brussels on 19 January. Mr. Westerlund called for the immediate opening of negotiations, whereas Mr. Ambuhl hoped for the conclusion of further bilateral negotiations, notably on subjects relating to Schengen. But Mr. Westerlund did not conceal that certain "evident" elements could prove to be an obstacle to Switzerland's participation in cooperation in that field.