Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new India-Sweden Strategic Partnership and emphasized stronger cooperation with Europe in technology, defence, sustainability, and innovation during his address at the European Round Table for Industry in Gothenburg.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the European Round Table for Industry in Gothenburg alongside Prime Minister of Sweden H.E. Mr. Ulf Kristersson and President of the European Commission H.E. Ms. Ursula von der Leyen.
During his speech, Prime Minister Modi thanked Sweden for conferring upon him the prestigious Royal Order of the Polar Star and dedicated the honour to the people of India and to the strong friendship between India and Sweden.
Prime Minister Modi said that India and Sweden share democratic values, commitment to the rule of law, innovation-driven growth, and sustainable development. He announced that both countries have decided to elevate their ties to the level of a Strategic Partnership.
Under the new partnership, India and Sweden will expand cooperation in green transition, defence, emerging technologies, and people-to-people relations.
The Prime Minister highlighted strong opportunities for collaboration in high-technology sectors including artificial intelligence, health-tech, and green mobility. He announced plans to strengthen the “Sweden–India Technology and AI Corridor” and revealed that the two countries will establish an India-Sweden Science and Technology Centre to deepen cooperation between startups and research ecosystems.
On climate action, Prime Minister Modi said India and Sweden are working closely through the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT), a joint global initiative focused on low-carbon industrial transformation. He announced that both countries have agreed to move forward with the third phase of LeadIT cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi also highlighted India’s work in green hydrogen, circular economy, and sustainable infrastructure. He said that combining Swedish technology with India’s scale can help develop global climate solutions.
In the defence sector, Prime Minister Modi said the establishment of manufacturing facilities in India by Swedish companies reflects a shift from a traditional buyer-seller relationship to long-term industrial collaboration.
Speaking on India-Europe ties, the Prime Minister noted that important progress has been made following European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to India earlier this year. He emphasized that the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement would create major opportunities for industries, investors, and innovators.
The Prime Minister also highlighted growing cooperation between India and the European Union in digital technology, semiconductors, clean energy, resilient supply chains, and innovation through the India-EU Trade and Technology Council.
Addressing global challenges, Prime Minister Modi stressed the importance of close cooperation among democracies like India and Sweden for maintaining global peace and stability. He reiterated India’s commitment to dialogue and diplomacy in resolving international tensions.
Prime Minister Modi also thanked Sweden for its support following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam last year and reaffirmed India’s resolve to fight terrorism and those who support it.
The address reinforced India’s growing strategic and economic engagement with Sweden and Europe, focusing on innovation, sustainability, security, and shared democratic values.
Source: PM India
