Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Gothenburg on Saturday, with both countries agreeing to elevate their relationship to the level of a Strategic Partnership.
Crown Princess Victoria also participated in the meeting and conveyed greetings from King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia. Prime Minister Modi extended his wishes to the Swedish King on his 80th birthday.
During the talks, the leaders reviewed the full spectrum of India-Sweden relations and noted growing cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, green transition, emerging technologies, defence, digitalisation, space, education, research and cultural exchanges.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties based on shared democratic values, innovation and sustainability. They also stressed the importance of regular high-level political engagement and institutional dialogue to deepen the expanding partnership.
To operationalise the new Strategic Partnership, the two countries adopted the India-Sweden Joint Action Plan 2026-2030. The roadmap focuses on four major pillars — strategic dialogue and security, next-generation economic partnership, emerging technologies and trusted connectivity, and cooperation in areas related to people, planet, health and resilience.
The leaders also highlighted the significance of the recently concluded India-European Union Free Trade Agreement, saying it would open a new phase in economic and commercial cooperation. They agreed to work towards its early implementation to strengthen trade, investment and technology partnerships.
Prime Minister Modi appreciated Sweden’s continued cooperation with India in sectors such as clean technology, advanced manufacturing, sustainable mobility and digital transformation. Kristersson, in turn, praised India’s progress in digital transformation and artificial intelligence and acknowledged the contribution of the Indian community to Sweden’s economy and innovation ecosystem.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments and reiterated the need for reforms in the United Nations and other multilateral institutions. Prime Minister Modi thanked Sweden for its support in the fight against terrorism.
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, stability, resilient supply chains and sustainable economic growth.
