PM Narendra Modi’s Sweden Visit Opens New Chapter in AI, Defence and Sustainable Growth Partnership

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held long talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Gothenburg. After this he also addressed the European Round Table for Industry i.e. ERT. This tour is expected to further strengthen relations between India and Sweden as well as all of Europe.

Who attended the meeting?

Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden was also present in the talks between the two countries. He conveyed greetings from King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia. PM Modi also congratulated the Swedish King on his 80th birthday.

Did PM Modi get Sweden's biggest honour?

On Sunday, PM Modi was given Sweden's highest civilian honor 'Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross'. This honor was given for the work and strengthening of relations between India and Sweden.

Has India-Sweden now become 'strategic partners'?

Both countries have now given their relationship the status of 'strategic partnership'. This partnership will be based on four things. First, dialogue for security and stability. Second, next generation economic partnership. Third, new technology and reliable connectivity. Fourth, to work together on people, planet, health and strength. To take this forward, 'India-Sweden Joint Action Plan 2026-2030' has also been made. It is clearly written in it that in the coming years, both countries will work together at the level of politics, trade, technology, security, climate and common people.

Which field do they have emphasis on?

Both the leaders agreed that work has increased significantly in trade, investment, innovation, green energy, defence, digital, space, education and culture. PM Modi said that Sweden is continuously associated with India in clean technology, advanced manufacturing and digital transformation. The Swedish Prime Minister praised India's progress in Digital India and AI. He said that Indians settled in Sweden are making a big contribution to the economy and new ideas there.

Will the India-EU free trade deal open doors?

Both the leaders said that the recent India-European Union free trade deal has opened new doors for trade. Now efforts will be made to implement it quickly so that investment and technology transactions increase. There will also be talk on supply chains and UN reforms.
Modi and Christerson also discussed the situation in the world. Both said that there is a need for reform in the United Nations and other major organisations. PM Modi thanked Sweden for its support in the fight against terrorism. Both countries will work together on peace, strong supply chain and sustainable development.

Who were invited?

Later, PM Modi spoke to big industrialists of Europe at the ERT meeting hosted by Volvo Group. Sweden's PM and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen were also present here. PM Modi said that India is one of the best places for investment, innovation and manufacturing today. He reiterated the mantra of ‘Design for India, Make in India and Export from India’. European companies called for more investment in India.

Why did they Focus on IMEC, AI and green hydrogen?

Modi said that India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor i.e. IMEC will further accelerate the business of India and Europe. He asked European companies to come together with India in telecom, AI, semiconductor, electronics, renewable energy, green hydrogen, health and life sciences.

The PM suggested that India-Europe CEOs meeting be held every year. Also, an 'India Desk' should be created in ERT. Overall, this visit to Gothenburg has brought a new turn in the relations between India, Sweden and Europe. Now the focus will be on innovation, sustainability and trusted partnerships.