Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) reflects a shared commitment to deepening economic ties and fostering inclusive growth across regions.
Speaking at the India-Sweden High-Level Trade and Investment Policy Forum, Goyal underlined the potential for increased collaboration between India and Sweden. The forum was attended by members of the Confederation of Swedish Enterprises and leading Swedish and Indian businesses.
“The joint paper on the proposed India-EU FTA, released at the event, underscores our collective commitment to strengthening economic ties and fostering inclusive growth. The India-Sweden partnership is a model of how two diverse economies can create mutual benefit through shared vision and cooperation. I look forward to translating these deliberations into concrete opportunities,” Goyal said.
During his visit, Goyal also met Marie Sandin, Managing Director of Tetra Pak Sweden, and discussed ways to enhance cooperation in sustainable packaging solutions. The two sides explored opportunities for expanding research and development initiatives in India and strengthening capabilities in advanced equipment manufacturing.
In an interaction with Swedish business leaders at a dinner reception hosted by the Sweden-India Business Council and the Embassy of India, Goyal highlighted India’s growing appeal as an investment destination. He cited the country’s steady progress in sustainable development and its Zero Defect, Zero Effect manufacturing philosophy as key drivers of economic opportunity.
“I emphasised the remarkable progress India has made in technology, innovation, and R\&D, backed by the strength of our skilled and talented workforce. I encouraged Swedish businesses to explore opportunities in India, where there is immense potential for collaboration and mutual growth,” he said.
Goyal also participated in the concluding session of the Ministerial Meeting of the Indo-Swedish Joint Commission for Economic, Industrial and Scientific Cooperation, alongside Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Benjamin Dousa. The ministers discussed how capital, talent, and technology exchanges continue to shape the strategic partnership between the two countries, with science and innovation at the forefront.
IANS
