India, Sweden agree to elevate bilateral ties to Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17th May held bilateral talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Gothenburg, with the two countries agreeing to elevate their relationship to the level of a Strategic Partnership aimed at deepening cooperation across trade, technology, security and sustainability.

Strategic Partnership: India and Sweden agreed that their new Strategic Partnership will be guided by four major pillars:

1. Strategic Dialogue for Stability and Security
2. Next-Generation Economic Partnership
3. Emerging Technologies and Trusted Connectivity
4. Shaping Tomorrow Together – People, Planet, Health and Resilience

India–Sweden Joint Action Plan 2026–2030: The two nations also adopted the India–Sweden Joint Action Plan 2026–2030, which seeks to deepen cooperation in political, economic, technological, security and people-to-people sectors.

Royal Order of the Polar Star: In a major diplomatic honour, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with the Royal Order of the Polar Star, the highest honour awarded to a Head of Government by Sweden. This became PM Modi’s 31st international honour. The Royal Order of the Polar Star was instituted in 1748 to recognise exceptional public service and contributions that advance Swedish interests and international cooperation.

Gripen fighter jets: Ahead of the Prime Minister’s arrival in Gothenburg, his aircraft was escorted in Swedish airspace by Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets. The Gripen aircraft are known for their advanced electronic warfare systems, AESA radar technology and high survivability against modern threats.