The first-ever Swedish State Visit to Singapore concluded with great success, highlighting the strong bond between the two nations. 
Held from November 19 to 21, 2024, the visit culminated in the Singapore-Sweden Royal Business Forum, which brought together leaders from government, business, and academia to chart a shared path forward.
A Vision for the Future
With the theme “Innovating for a Sustainable Future,” the forum focused on key areas like energy, healthcare, transportation, and digital transformation.
His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf highlighted Sweden’s commitment to collaboration in his speech, stating:
“Sweden aims to be a trusted, long-term partner to Singapore. In areas like energy transition, sustainable transportation, life sciences and defence, our partnerships can drive solutions to both current and future challenges. Working together in emerging technologies, such as AI and quantum technology, allows us not only to understand their implications but also to push the boundaries of what is possible.”
Ambassador Andrew Kwan, in his remarks, emphasized the shared strengths of both nations:
“Sweden and Singapore share strengths in innovation, sustainability, and technology. Both countries have topped or been placed highly on IMD’s World Digital rankings of the 2024 Global Innovation Index and the Economic Intelligence Unit’s best countries for business. Despite the modest size of our population, our economic growth and ambitions are clearly not defined by it.”
Turning Commitments into Action
The visit was marked by the signing of several key agreements that paved the way for deeper cooperation:
- Green Energy: A renewed partnership between Sweden’s Ministry of Climate and Enterprise and Singapore’s Energy Market Authority to develop sustainable energy solutions.
- Healthcare: A new agreement between the health ministries of both nations to promote collaborative innovation in healthcare.
- Transportation: An extension of the collaboration between Sweden’s Transport Administration and Singapore’s Land Transport Authority to advance safe and sustainable mobility.
- Academia: NTU and Lund University signed an MoU to expand research collaborations and exchange programs, with a focus on Horizon Europe projects.
Beyond Business: Defense and Airport Innovation
The visit also showcased advancements in defense and aviation:
- Defense: Sweden and Singapore updated their long-standing defense cooperation agreement to include innovation and underwater technology.
- Airport Innovation: Swedavia and Changi Airport Group announced plans to improve airport operations using AI and robotics, enhancing passenger experiences.
A Cultural Connection
The Swedish Royals also engaged in cultural exchanges, visiting landmarks like Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens. These visits celebrated the growing friendship between the two nations.
A Historic Visit, a Promising Future
The agreements signed during this visit reflect the shared vision of Sweden and Singapore for a sustainable and innovative future.
With both nations firmly committed to collaboration, the stage is set for continued progress in addressing global challenges together.
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