Sweden is our strong partner in 'Make in India': PM Modi

Stockholm [Sweden], Apr. 17 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday reiterated Sweden's strong commitment towards 'Make in India' initiative and called it an important partner for the country.

At a joint press statement here, Prime Minister Modi said, "Sweden has been a strong partner ever since Make in India's inception. Prime Minister Lofven himself joined in along with a very big business delegation in our 'Make In India' programme in Mumbai in 2016 during his visit."

Terming the relations between India and Sweden as "win-win partnership" and "perfect match", the Prime Minister said two documents - an Innovation Partnership and Joint Action Plan have been signed to further bolster the bilateral ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Modi said the two countries were focusing on key sectors such as renewable energy, urban transport and waste management, which are related to the quality of life of the Indians.

The Prime Minister added that he and his Swedish counterpart would discuss with top Swedish businessmen on trade and investment.

On cooperation in the defence sector and cybersecurity, he further said, "Sweden has always been India's partner in the defence sector. There will be new opportunities in the defence sector. We have decided to strengthen relations as far as cyber security is concerned. We have set up a common task force for cybersecurity in the field of defence."

Prime Minister Modi underlined that Sweden was assisting and collaborating India in the fields of innovation, investment, manufacturing and start-ups.

After the joint statement, Prime Minister Modi and his Swedish counterpart met with leading Swedish businessmen and children of Indian diaspora living in the country.

Before the delegation-level talks, Prime Minister Modi undertook a short walk with his Swedish counterpart Stefan Lofven from Sogerska to Rosenbad in Stockholm earlier in the day.

He also called on the King of Sweden Carl XVI Gustaf and discussed on ways of strengthening bilateral ties in key sectors.

Later today, the Prime Minister and his Swedish counterpart will co-chair the first-ever Indo-Nordic summit, and will also conduct separate bilateral meetings with the Prime Ministers of Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Norway.

Finally, he will address a community event for the Indian diaspora living in the Scandinavian country before flying to the United Kingdom today.

On Monday, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Sweden on a historic visit, in what was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister after 30 years.

The Prime Minister is currently on a five-day visit to Sweden, the United Kingdom and Germany. (ANI)