PrintFriendly
PM’s Visit to Sweden
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Sweden on May 17, 2026 further strengthened India’s engagement with the Nordic region and the European Union. The visit focused on innovation, green transition, technology partnerships, trade, defence cooperation, and sustainable development.
In Stockholm, Prime Minister Modi held delegation-level talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. Both leaders reviewed bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction over the expanding cooperation in clean technology, healthcare, climate action, digital innovation, advanced manufacturing, and defence production. The discussions emphasized promoting investments and strengthening economic ties.
A major highlight of the visit was Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the European Round Table for Industry in Gothenburg. He interacted with leading European industrialists and business leaders, highlighting India’s emergence as a global manufacturing and technology hub. Discussions focused on artificial intelligence, semiconductors, renewable energy, green mobility, and sustainable industrial development.
The visit reinforced India’s commitment to environmentally sustainable growth. Sweden’s expertise in green technologies, waste management, electric mobility, and circular economy practices made it an important partner for India’s green transition goals. Both countries agreed to expand collaboration in innovation and research to support climate-friendly development.
Another important aspect of the visit was Prime Minister Modi’s interaction with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Discussions centered on India–EU strategic ties, trade negotiations, digital partnerships, resilient supply chains, maritime security, and cooperation on emerging technologies and climate change.
The MEA briefing also highlighted growing strategic convergence between India and Sweden on international issues. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to democratic values, multilateralism, and a rules-based international order. Defence and security cooperation, including advanced technology partnerships and innovation-driven collaboration, also formed an important part of the discussions.
Overall, the Sweden visit significantly strengthened India’s engagement with Europe and reinforced India’s image as a reliable partner in technology, innovation, sustainability, and strategic cooperation.
PM receives the Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross in Sweden
In a special ceremony hosted in Gothenburg on 17 May, 2026 Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden conferred upon Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi the ‘Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross,’ one of Sweden’s oldest and most distinguished honours, instituted in the 18th century. The award is Sweden’s highest honour conferred on foreign Heads of Government in recognition of exceptional public service and contribution towards strengthening relations with Sweden.
Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Modi expressed his deep gratitude to Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria and to the people of Sweden for this honour. He dedicated the award to the 1.4 billion people of India and to the enduring friendship between India and Sweden.