Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in bilateral discussions with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Gothenburg. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden also participated in the meeting, conveying warm wishes from King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia. The leaders reviewed various aspects of India-Sweden relations, emphasizing trade, investment, innovation, defense, digitalization, and more.
During the meeting, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm wishes on the Sweden King’s 80th birthday. Both leaders acknowledged the deepening ties between the two countries, based on shared democratic values and a commitment to innovation and sustainability. They decided to upgrade the relationship to a Strategic Partnership, focusing on stability, economic cooperation, emerging technologies, and collaborative efforts in various sectors.
The Strategic Partnership between India and Sweden will be guided by four key pillars: Stability and Security, Economic Partnership, Emerging Technologies, and People, Planet, Health, and Resilience. The leaders adopted the India-Sweden Joint Action Plan 2026-2030 to enhance cooperation across political, economic, technological, security, and people-to-people domains. They also discussed the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and its potential to strengthen economic ties between the nations.
Prime Minister Modi appreciated Sweden’s involvement in strategic sectors like innovation, clean technologies, and digital transformation. He invited increased Swedish participation in India’s development journey. PM Kristersson commended India’s progress in digital transformation and AI, recognizing the Indian community’s positive impact on Sweden’s economy and innovation landscape.
Both leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues, emphasizing the need for UN and multilateral organization reforms. They reiterated their commitment to combatting terrorism and promoting peace, stability, and sustainable economic growth. The meeting underscored the importance of regular high-level engagements to guide the expanding partnership between India and Sweden.
