PM Modi Elevates India-Sweden Ties to Strategic Partnership During European Tour
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sweden, marking the third leg of his five-nation European tour. Meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Modi elevated bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership. The leaders adopted a Joint Action Plan focusing on AI, defense, green transition, and trade expansion. Modi also engaged with European industry leaders to boost investment ties. This diplomatic milestone underscores India’s growing geopolitical footprint in Europe, following strategic agreements in the Netherlands and preceding visits to Norway and Italy.
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Colonial fantasy: What went wrong on Narendra Modi's European tour?
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a six-day European tour (May 15-20, 2026) aimed at diversifying partnerships amid global disruptions from the US-Israeli war on Iran. The trip included stops in Abu Dhabi, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy, culminating in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Oslo. Modi signed a major infrastructure and energy deal in Abu Dhabi and discussed defense, semiconductors, green hydrogen, and water management with Dutch leaders. In Stockholm, he met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, with the India-EU Free Trade Agreement set to be signed by year-end. The Nordic summit focused on technology, green transition, renewable energy, blue economy, defense, space, and the Arctic. Modi highlighted that bilateral trade with Nordic nations had quadrupled over ten years and investment from Nordic nations into India had risen 200%. However, the tour was overshadowed by a single incident in Oslo that raised uncomfortable questions about Western perceptions of India's democracy, including a racist cartoon.
RT - Daily newsPM Modi Arrives in Norway for Historic Talks on Trade and Technology
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Oslo, Norway, on May 18, 2026, marking the first visit by an Indian head of government to the Scandinavian nation in 43 years. This stop is part of a broader four-nation European tour, with Modi arriving directly from Sweden. Upon landing, he was received by Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and other senior officials. The two-day visit aims to revitalize and strengthen bilateral relations between India and Norway. Key agenda items include high-level discussions on expanding trade ties, fostering technological collaboration, and attracting investment. In addition to bilateral talks with Prime Minister Støre, Modi is scheduled to meet with King Harald V and Queen Sonja. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that the visit will review the progress of existing partnerships and explore new avenues for cooperation in key sectors. This historic engagement underscores India's growing diplomatic and economic outreach in Europe, focusing on strategic sectors like technology and sustainable trade.
News Today: Breaking News, Top Headlines & Live Updates | The HinduIndia and Sweden Elevate Ties to Strategic Partnership Following PM Modi's Visit
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Sweden, India and Sweden officially upgraded their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, adopting a Joint Action Plan for 2026-2030. The agreement focuses on economic statecraft rather than ceremonial diplomacy, aiming to double bilateral trade and investment within five years. Key areas of cooperation include artificial intelligence, defense manufacturing, critical minerals, green energy transition, and space exploration, specifically collaboration on India's Venus Orbiter mission. The partnership emphasizes co-development and co-manufacturing, aligning with India's 'Make in India' initiative and its goal to future-proof growth through technology transfer from Sweden's innovation-heavy sectors. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joined Modi in Gothenburg to finalize the deal. This move positions Sweden as a gateway for India to access EU markets and diversify supply chains amidst global geopolitical volatility. The article highlights that India is now Sweden's third-largest trading partner in Asia, with significant existing trade in pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, and machinery.
NDTV News Search Records Found 1000PM Modi Urges Swedish Firms to Invest in India, Highlights Reform Momentum
During an official visit to Gothenburg, Sweden, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the European Round Table for Industry, urging Swedish and European companies to increase investments in India. Modi emphasized that India's "reform express" is moving at full speed, highlighting opportunities in manufacturing, green hydrogen, clean energy, digital infrastructure, and deep tech. He positioned India as a global R&D hub, leveraging its young population and expanding middle class. A key focus was the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement, described as a transformative partnership enhancing trade and supply chain resilience. Modi also cited the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor as a value-add for business ties. He called for combining Sweden’s innovation strengths with India’s scale and talent, proposing annual CEO roundtables and an India Desk at the ERT. The event, attended by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, reaffirmed shared democratic values and commitment to sustainable growth. Modi reiterated the "Design for India, Make in India, Export from India" vision, inviting deeper engagement from European industries.
News Today: Breaking News, Top Headlines & Live Updates | The HinduPM Modi Arrives in Norway for Historic Visit; India-Sweden Ties Elevated to Strategic Partnership
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Oslo, Norway, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian PM to the country. The visit prioritizes trade, energy security, and discussions on global conflicts, including situations in Ukraine, Iran, and Gaza. A key focus is reviewing the progress of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which entered into force in October 2025. Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and address a business summit to foster technological collaboration. The trip also includes the 3rd Nordic-India summit, bringing together leaders from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, which was previously cancelled due to regional tensions. Prior to arriving in Norway, Modi concluded a two-day visit to Sweden, where he and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership. During this stop, Modi was awarded the ‘Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross’ for his contributions to India-Sweden relations. The itinerary underscores India's deepening engagement with Nordic nations in defense, technology, and trade sectors.
News Today: Breaking News, Top Headlines & Live Updates | The HinduPM Modi Departs for Norway After Elevating India-Sweden Ties to Strategic Partnership
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his two-day visit to Sweden and departed for Norway, marking a significant milestone in Indo-Nordic relations. During his stay in Sweden, Modi held talks with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, resulting in the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. Key outcomes included the launch of the Joint Innovation Partnership 2.0 and the India-Sweden Technology and Artificial Intelligence Corridor. Both leaders set an ambitious goal to double bilateral trade within the next five years, focusing on cooperation in trade, technology, and defence. Modi was also awarded the 'Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross' for his contributions to strengthening ties. This visit precedes his trip to Norway, which will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years. In Norway, Modi is scheduled to attend the India-Nordic summit and hold bilateral discussions aimed at further boosting trade and regional cooperation. The move underscores India's growing strategic engagement with Nordic countries, emphasizing innovation and economic partnership as central pillars of foreign policy.
Economic TimesPM Modi Urges Swedish Firms to Invest in India, Highlights Fast-Track Reforms
During an official visit to Sweden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the European Round Table for Industry, urging Swedish and European companies to increase their investment in India. Modi emphasized that India's "reform express" is accelerating, making the country a prime destination for manufacturing, innovation, and green energy initiatives. He highlighted key sectors for collaboration, including telecom, digital infrastructure, AI, healthcare, and the green hydrogen mission. Modi stressed the shared values of democracy and sustainability between India and Sweden, proposing a partnership that combines Swedish innovation with India's scale and talent. A significant portion of his address focused on the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement, which he described as a transformative economic partnership. He also mentioned the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor as a value-add to business ties. Modi invited firms to participate in flagship projects under the "Make in India" initiative and suggested annual CEO roundtables to strengthen economic cooperation. The event included participation from Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, underscoring the high-level diplomatic and economic engagement aimed at fostering resilient supply chains and technological co-creation.
Home PageModi Pitches Bold Investment Vision to Europe's Top CEOs in Gothenburg
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the European Round Table for Industry (ERT) in Gothenburg, Sweden, urging top European corporate leaders to increase investments in India. The high-level roundtable, co-hosted by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, featured executives from major firms like Vodafone, Ericsson, and Airbus. Modi outlined a five-sector framework for deeper industrial collaboration, focusing on telecom, AI, green energy, infrastructure, and healthcare. He highlighted India's economic reforms, its status as the fastest-growing major economy, and the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement, termed the 'Mother of all Deals.' To strengthen ties, Modi proposed institutional mechanisms such as an annual CEO roundtable and sector-specific working groups. The event underscores significant diplomatic and business engagement between India and Europe, leveraging recent agreements including a new Security and Defence Partnership and ongoing cooperation through the India-EU Trade and Technology Council.
Economic TimesIndia and Sweden Elevate Ties to Strategic Partnership with Focus on AI and Defence
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson held bilateral talks in Gothenburg, agreeing to elevate their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. The leaders adopted the India-Sweden Joint Action Plan 2026-2030, establishing a roadmap for cooperation across four pillars: security, economic partnership, emerging technologies, and societal resilience. Key areas of focus include artificial intelligence, defence, green transition, and digital infrastructure. During the visit, PM Modi was awarded Sweden's highest honour, the Royal Order of the Polar Star, recognizing his contributions to bilateral ties. The discussions also emphasized the importance of the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement, with both leaders committing to its early implementation to boost trade and investment. Additionally, PM Modi addressed the European Round Table for Industry, highlighting India as a global investment hub and inviting European companies to partner in sectors like semiconductors and renewable energy. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to multilateral reforms and resilient supply chains, underscoring the growing strategic convergence between India and Europe amidst global uncertainties.
India Today | Latest StoriesEU, India, and Nordic States Prepare New Economic Agreements During Modi's Stockholm Visit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Stockholm to meet with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, focusing on strengthening economic ties between India, the EU, and Nordic countries. Sweden and India announced a strategic partnership aiming to double their bilateral trade and investments within five years, building upon a free trade agreement finalized earlier in the year. Key areas of cooperation include ecological transition, defense, emerging technologies, and space exploration, highlighted by a new memorandum for collaboration on the Indian Venus Orbiter mission. Von der Leyen emphasized the necessity of concluding a separate investment agreement by year-end to secure supply chains and ensure fair treatment for investors amidst global economic shifts. Following the meetings in Sweden, Modi is scheduled to attend a summit with Nordic leaders in Norway before concluding his tour in Italy with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The visit underscores a broader effort to diversify supply chains and deepen strategic alliances between Europe and India.
Digi24Swedish Gripen Jets Escort PM Modi's Plane Into Airspace
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a distinctive aerial welcome as Swedish Gripen fighter jets escorted his aircraft upon entering Swedish airspace. This gesture marked the beginning of his two-day official visit to Gothenburg, scheduled for May 17-18, at the invitation of Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. The high-profile reception underscores the significance of the trip, which aims to deepen the strategic partnership between India and Sweden. Key agenda items for the discussions include strengthening bilateral ties, fostering innovation, expanding trade opportunities, and enhancing defense cooperation. This visit represents a crucial step in solidifying diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. The article also briefly mentions Modi's preceding stop in the United Arab Emirates as part of a broader five-nation tour, where he emphasized dialogue and diplomacy regarding regional crises. However, the primary focus remains on the ceremonial entry into Sweden and the anticipated outcomes of the bilateral meetings in Gothenburg, highlighting the mutual interest in advancing collaborative efforts in security and technology sectors.
India Today | Latest StoriesPM Modi Arrives in Sweden for Talks with Swedish PM and EU Chief
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Gothenburg, Sweden, on Sunday for the third leg of his international tour. He was warmly welcomed by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at the airport, where his aircraft was escorted by Swedish Air Force jets. The visit focuses on strengthening bilateral ties between India and Sweden, with key discussions planned on trade, technology, defense, green transition, AI, and supply chain resilience. Bilateral trade between the two nations reached $7.75 billion in 2025. During the trip, PM Modi is scheduled to meet not only with PM Kristersson but also with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The leaders will jointly address the European Round Table for Industry, aiming to deepen investment linkages between India and Europe. PM Modi expressed gratitude for the reception and highlighted his intent to advance friendship in innovation and defense. This visit follows his 2018 trip for the India-Nordic Summit. Later in the week, PM Modi is set to visit Norway and Italy, continuing his diplomatic engagements in Europe.
Economic TimesIndian Diaspora Gives Grand Welcome to PM Modi in Gothenburg Ahead of Sweden Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Gothenburg, Sweden, receiving an enthusiastic welcome from the Indian diaspora as part of his five-nation tour. Hundreds of expatriates gathered hours in advance, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with cultural tributes and expressions of pride. Community members described the event as a dream come true, highlighting their deep connection to the Prime Minister and India. This arrival marks the beginning of a significant two-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between India and Sweden. The diplomatic engagements are scheduled to focus on enhancing cooperation in key sectors such as commerce, investment, and technological innovation. The visit, occurring on May 17-18, 2026, follows stops in the UAE and the Netherlands, where strategic agreements were signed. Invited by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Modi’s trip is viewed as a major milestone in Indo-Swedish relations, seeking to explore new avenues for partnership and economic growth. The strong public turnout in Gothenburg underscores the active role of the Indian community abroad in supporting high-level diplomatic efforts.
Economic TimesPM Modi Begins Sweden Visit as Third Leg of Five-Nation European Tour
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Sweden on May 17, 2026, marking the third stop of his five-nation diplomatic tour. Invited by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two nations. A key component of the visit includes an interaction with the European Round Table for Industry, where Modi will engage with leading European CEOs to explore opportunities for enhancing trade and investment ties between India and Europe. Indian Ambassador to Sweden, Anurag Bhushan, highlighted significant enthusiasm for the visit, particularly in Gothenburg. This leg of the tour follows a successful visit to the Netherlands, where India and the Dutch government agreed to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership. During that visit, several agreements were signed, and Leiden University returned historic Chola-era plates to India. The ongoing tour underscores India's focus on expanding its geopolitical and economic footprint in Europe amidst shifting global dynamics.
News Today: Breaking News, Top Headlines & Live Updates | The HinduPM Modi Arrives in Norway for Third Indo-Nordic Summit After Elevating Ties with Sweden
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Norway to attend the third Indo-Nordic Summit, marking a significant step in his five-nation European tour. Prior to this arrival, Modi was in Gothenburg, Sweden, where he addressed the European Round Table for Industry alongside Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. During this visit, Modi announced that India and Sweden have agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership. He emphasized that this decision builds upon shared democratic values, the rule of law, and a commitment to human-centric development and sustainability. Additionally, Modi accepted Sweden's prestigious 'Order of the Polar Star,' describing it not merely as a personal honor but as a recognition of the 1.4 billion people of India and those contributing to stronger India-Sweden ties. The discussions highlighted innovation as a key vehicle for development and underscored the growing cooperation between the two nations across various sectors. This diplomatic engagement underscores India's expanding footprint in Europe, focusing on defense, semiconductors, and sustainable development goals.
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