May 04: India and Sweden held the 7th session of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) on 03 May 2024 in Stockholm. The Indian side was led by Shri Pavan Kapoor, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs and the Swedish side was led by H.E. Mr. Jan Knutsson, State Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sweden.
Both sides welcomed the progress in all areas of bilateral cooperation and deliberated on the way forward in priority sectors of Innovation & sustainability, trade & investment, and stressed on the need to focus on new emerging technologies like semiconductors, green steel, and green batteries. The contribution of LeadIT under India Sweden Industry Transition Partnership in combating climate change found special mention. The two sides also discussed security aspects including cyber security and counter-terrorism and also agreed to consider having collaborations in the defence sector.
The two sides appreciated the robust and fast-growing economic ties and noted the importance of holding the India-Sweden Innovation Bridge, India-Sweden Innovation Day, and India-Sweden Sustainability Day as an important step towards further enhancing B2B relations. They also appreciated the presence of a large Indian community in Sweden, which forms an important link.
They exchanged views on cooperation in the reform of the UNSC especially in the build-up to the Summit of the Future. They noted with satisfaction the growing cooperation to further strengthen India-EU bilateral cooperation and emphasized the need for an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial India-EU FTA. Both sides also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.
Both sides agreed to hold the next round of consultations in New Delhi at a mutually convenient date.
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