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Sweden: On the first day of his two-day visit to Sweden, ( Sweden) PM Modi concluded several significant agreements. Most notably, the two nations have now elevated their ties to the level of a Strategic Partnership. During delegation-level talks, both countries agreed to upgrade their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with his Swedish counterpart, Ulf Kristersson, focusing on trade, technology, defense, and other key sectors.
PM Modi was also conferred with the ‘Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross’ in recognition of his outstanding contribution to India-Sweden relations and his visionary leadership. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated in a post on ‘X’ that, during the delegation-level talks, the two leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of India-Sweden relations and agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership. This marks a major milestone.
Key Issues Discussed
The leaders of both nations discussed ways to deepen cooperation across various sectors, including trade and investment, technology and innovation, green transition, space, emerging technologies, defense and security, small industries, research, and people-to-people ties. In 2025, bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$ 7.75 billion. They agreed to identify new opportunities in the spirit of the India-Europe Strategic Partnership and noted the recent conclusion of the India-Europe FTA for the mutual benefit of their people.
Swedish Prime Minister Praises India’s Digital Transformation
Swedish PM Kristersson lauded the progress India is making in the fields of digital transformation and artificial intelligence. He also highlighted the positive contributions of the Indian diaspora residing in Sweden. Prime Minister Modi invited Sweden to further participate in India’s growth story. Both leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues. They emphasized the need for reforms within the UN and multilateral organizations, and agreed to enhance cooperation in multilateral forums.
**Princess Victoria Joins the Meeting**
Crown Princess Victoria also participated in the meeting and conveyed greetings on behalf of the King and Queen of Sweden. PM Modi thanked his hosts for their warm welcome and extended his best wishes to King Carl XVI Gustaf on his 80th birthday. Additionally, PM Modi met with Robert Mærsk Uggla, Chairman of Mærsk, and discussed the vast scope of opportunities and growing investment potential in India—particularly in port infrastructure, logistics, and other sectors. In a post on ‘X’, Jaiswal stated that PM Modi appreciated Mærsk’s long-standing presence in India and encouraged the company to invest in new business opportunities within the country’s maritime logistics and port infrastructure sectors. Jaiswal further added, “They also discussed cooperation in green shipping and skilled mobility.”
**Bengali Culture on Display in Sweden**
As the Prime Minister’s aircraft entered the European nation’s airspace, it was escorted by Swedish Air Force jets. At the airport, his Swedish counterpart extended a warm and distinctive welcome to him. PM Modi had previously visited Sweden in 2018 for the first India-Nordic Summit. Immediately upon arriving in Gothenburg, PM Modi met with members of the Indian diaspora. He was welcomed with musical performances, which included a rendition of the *bhajan* ‘Vaishnav Jan To’ by Swedish opera singer Charlotta Huldt, as well as a magnificent Bharatanatyam performance by students from the Lila Academy. During the reception, in the presence of PM Kristersson, a magnificent display of Bengali culture was showcased. Modi stated on social media, “Bengali culture is popular across the world, and Sweden is no exception.”
