Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Göteborg on Sunday to launch a strategic partnership with Sweden. The cooperation focuses on climate, space and security, with the goal of doubling economic exchanges within five years.
The partnership was presented at a press conference with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The action plan includes security issues, digital development, green transition and space. A joint center for science and technology will be established.
Sweden and India will cooperate on a spacecraft to explore Venus scheduled for launch in 2028. The Carl-Gustaf grenade rifle will also be produced in India. The underlying free trade agreement between the EU and India is estimated to create about 23,000 jobs in Sweden.
Modi was greeted with cultural performances and awarded the Order of the Polar Star by Crown Princess Victoria. He also faced protests from Sikhs outside World of Volvo. Kristersson noted differences in views on Russia but stressed India's willingness to negotiate.
