Swiss ATC is the same. I think that they feel they have to issue you with a route clearance when you have established radio contact......there are a few folks who say "identified / radar contact", but as I say, they are few.
Is it necessary? Is the pilot going to change his level or route without a clearance? Do you need to say "maintain FL360 continue to ATN" on first contact? Where else would he fly to, except stay on flight planned route and last cleared flight level?