On May 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Sweden during his visit to Gothenburg. During the visit, he met with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Modi elevated their bilateral relationship to the level of a “strategic partnership.” The main objective of this partnership is to promote trade, new technology, defense, artificial intelligence, and environmentally friendly development between the two countries.
The two countries also endorsed a Joint Action Plan for 2026–2030, aimed at expanding collaboration in emerging technologies, innovation, green transition, digital infrastructure, and economic resilience. Officials said the agreement is expected to strengthen long-term economic and strategic engagement between India and Sweden.
During the visit, Modi addressed the European Round Table for Industry (ERT) in Gothenburg, where senior executives from leading European and Indian companies discussed investment opportunities and industrial cooperation. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Modi highlighted the importance of “trusted partnerships” and resilient supply chains in an uncertain global environment.
A major focus of the discussions was the expansion of trade and investment. India and Sweden agreed to work toward doubling bilateral trade and investment within the next five years, according to statements released after the talks. Swedish officials said the cooperation could support job creation and industrial growth, particularly in sectors linked to green technology, manufacturing, and digital services.
Artificial intelligence and advanced technology also emerged as central themes during the meetings. Both sides discussed cooperation in AI research, innovation partnerships, space technology, mobility, and sustainable industrial solutions. Sweden reiterated support for stronger India-European Union technology ties and deeper collaboration in clean energy and digital transformation.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit to Sweden is an important step in India’s broader efforts to deepen ties with European economies and innovation centers. Officials said the partnership will expand people-to-people exchanges and business ties, as well as promote cooperation in strategic sectors.
The visit additionally coincided with growing momentum in India-European Union economic relations, including recent progress on the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement. Modi described the agreement as a “transformative economic partnership” that could create opportunities in manufacturing, services, technology, and supply chains. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also participated in key discussions during the visit.
This visit was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s five-nation tour (United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Norway, Italy, and Sweden), with Sweden being the third stop. The primary objective of this trip is to strengthen trade, energy, new technologies, and strategic ties with these countries.
