In a candid conversation, Sweden’s envoy to India, Jan Thesleff, has articulated why India’s growing influence worldwide is a boon for humanity. Speaking amid the historic India-EU Free Trade Agreement, he credited PM Modi’s visionary steps for elevating India’s profile at forums like the G20.
‘India repeatedly proves its mettle on global platforms,’ Thesleff remarked, recalling his over three years in New Delhi. He anticipates similar showcases at the imminent AI Impact Summit hosted by PM Modi, affirming, ‘When India steps up, the world benefits.’
Against the backdrop of tariff skirmishes, the envoy sees the India-EU FTA as a beacon of hope. It proves that nations can forge agreements based on mutual trust and shared rules, countering global volatility. ‘India is a reliable partner for us,’ he stressed.
Sweden backs UN Security Council reforms to include a permanent seat for India, recognizing its status as a unified global player. On supply chain resilience, Thesleff highlighted how the FTA bolsters secure manufacturing hubs. Swedish firms in India are not just serving local markets but fortifying worldwide chains.
Praising India’s youthful innovation engine, Thesleff revealed efforts to draw top Indian talent for advanced studies in Sweden. Fields like sustainable energy and digital connectivity offer fertile ground for collaboration. ‘Your talent pool is overflowing with creativity,’ he enthused.
This endorsement comes at a pivotal moment, with India positioning itself as a linchpin in multilateralism and economic diversification. Thesleff’s insights paint a picture of symbiotic growth between India and global partners.