Ewa Björling in bilateral meeting with India
On 5 November, Minister for Trade Ewa Björling took part in a well-attended defence industry seminar in New Delhi, where Sweden's high-tech defence industry had an opportunity to present itself to defence politicians, members of the armed forces and the Indian defence industry. Dr Björling delivered an opening address and then took part in a panel discussion.
Harsh Pati Singhania and Ewa Björling at the defence industry seminar, surrounded by men wearing camouflage uniforms - one for summer and one for winter. Photographer: Karin Nylund/MFA
"We plan to sign a cooperation agreement in the area of military equipment, so the seminar was an excellent opportunity for the Swedish defence industry to meet the Indian defence industry," Ms Björling said. "We are offering India a strategic partnership for technological development. We are looking for a strategic partner - not just a purchaser of military equipment."
Dr Björling also met her Indian colleague Minister for Commerce and Industry Anand Sharma and discussed deeper cooperation between Sweden and India concerning trade and investments. There is strong interest in India on the part of Swedish companies, which have invested some SEK 500 million in India annually during the 21st century.
With the aim of promoting Sweden, the Sweden-India Nobel Memorial Week is currently under way in India, arranged by the Swedish Embassy for the fifth consecutive year. The event has become increasingly popular, and this year various activities will take place in five cities around India. The defence industry seminar in New Delhi is part of Sweden-India Nobel Memorial Week. Other events include a Swedish food festival at Hotel Taj Mahal and a local Nobel banquet that will be held this weekend.
