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Switzerland's previously filed application from 1992 will be withdrawn.
Most members of the Council of States of Switzerland (27 deputies) called for the withdrawal of the application for membership from 1992 and earlier the lower house (National Council) also took a similar decision. This vote was initiated by the Swiss People's Party, which advocates respect for the country's neutrality.
In addition, in a referendum in December 2015, 50.5% of citizens voted against joining the EU. Consequently, the last procedure in parliament was rather symbolic.
The news of Switzerland's turn could influence public opinion in the United Kingdom, where on June 23rd a referendum on EU membership is to be held. Recent polls show that the majority are in favor of exiting the European Union, which could greatly weaken the position of Brussels in world politics and lead to similar referendums in other countries.
