Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India and Europe can become pillars of stability, sustainability, and shared prosperity during a visit to Sweden.
The call for closer ties comes as both regions navigate global supply-chain disruptions and technological competition. By strengthening this partnership, India seeks to secure energy stability and address climate challenges while offering European markets a role in its economic expansion.
Speaking in Gothenburg, Sweden, on May 16, 2026 [1], Modi addressed a European CEO Round Table organized by Volvo [1]. He said the two regions must work together to create a more resilient global framework. "India and Europe can become pillars of stability, sustainability, and shared prosperity," Modi said [1].
The Prime Minister's remarks were part of a broader five-nation tour that included the UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy [2]. During the Swedish leg of the trip, Modi focused on the intersection of private industry and public policy. He invited European partners to engage more deeply with the Indian economy, stating, "We invite Europe to join India’s growth story in this uncertain world" [3].
Beyond economic cooperation, the visit served as a diplomatic milestone. Modi said Sweden’s second highest honour [2] was conferred upon him during the trip, which he said reflected the strong ties between the two nations [2].
Discussions during the round table and broader tour touched upon critical sectors including semiconductors and defense [4]. These areas are seen as vital for reducing dependencies on volatile markets and ensuring that technological competition does not destabilize international trade. The Prime Minister said the partnership should focus on sustainability to ensure long-term economic health for both parties [1].
“India and Europe can become pillars of stability, sustainability, and shared prosperity.”
This diplomatic push signals India's strategy to diversify its strategic partnerships beyond the U.S. and Asia. By targeting European CEOs and heads of state, India is attempting to position itself as a stable alternative for supply-chain relocation and a primary partner for green technology, aiming to hedge against geopolitical volatility in West Asia and East Asia.
