Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has extended an invitation to Swedish business leaders to explore the vast investment opportunities available in India, emphasizing the country's robust growth story and its commitment to strengthening international partnerships. This invitation was a key highlight of Goyal's recent visit to Sweden, where he engaged with government officials and business leaders to bolster economic ties between the two nations.
Goyal articulated that the complementary strengths of India and Sweden, combined with the prospective India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), could unlock significant potential for growth and collaboration. He underscored India's unwavering dedication to fortifying partnerships, citing the nation's impressive growth trajectory as evidence of its progress. He noted that with "1.4 billion Indians taking one step forward, our country takes 1.4 billion steps forward," illustrating the collective impact of individual advancement on national development.
During his visit, Goyal met with Benjamin Dousa, the Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, and Hakan Jevrell, the State Secretary for Foreign Trade. Discussions centered around enhancing collaboration across various sectors, including clean energy, digital technology, climate action, healthcare, life sciences, and skill development. Goyal specifically encouraged greater Swedish participation in India's expanding infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, expressing optimism about the deepening of economic ties between the two countries.
Goyal also addressed the India-Sweden Business Leaders' Roundtable (ISBLRT), where he emphasized that enhanced business engagement would further invigorate the burgeoning bilateral relations. He highlighted the role of India-Sweden cooperation in driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth, envisioning a brighter future for both nations. The ISBLRT, established in 2016, serves as a crucial platform for bringing together business leaders from both countries to promote collaboration in trade, innovation, and investment.
The Union Minister also highlighted India's remarkable transformation over the past decade, particularly in technology and innovation, positioning the country as a prime destination for business ventures. He urged Swiss industries and businesses to explore the unparalleled opportunities for growth and investment in India, capitalizing on its skilled workforce and conducive business environment.
The proposed India-EU FTA was a recurring theme throughout Goyal's engagements. He emphasized that the FTA would serve as a significant enabler, providing Sweden with enhanced access and opportunities within the Indian market. He assured Swedish business leaders that India is making substantial progress in these trade negotiations and is deeply committed to strengthening the partnership with the EU.
Goyal also extended a warm invitation to Swedish business leaders to visit India and experience firsthand the country's dynamic environment and potential. He expressed confidence that the long-standing partnership between India and Sweden could transcend existing achievements and reach new heights.
