Swedish traders recognise vast economic potential: envoy

ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Sweden Alexandra Berg von Linde said that the Swedish business community recognises the vast economic potential of Pakistan and is eager to tap into it.

She expressed these views in a meeting with National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq at the Speaker’s Chamber at the Parliament House on Tuesday.

She expressed Sweden’s strong commitment to strengthening its friendship with Pakistan and considered it a key economic partner. She emphasised that increasing parliamentary engagement between the two countries would help fortify the existing positive relationship.

She mentioned that the Swedish Parliament, the Riksdag (The Riksdag is the parliament and the supreme decision-making body of the Kingdom of Sweden), would adopt a realistic, issue-driven approach to enhancing cooperation between the two legislatures.

Berg von Linde commended the speaker’s personal determination and proactive measures to deepen bilateral ties between Pakistan and Sweden.

Speaker Sadiq emphasised that Pakistan and Sweden have vast opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation and establish a broader, more comprehensive relationship. He said that the relationship could be based on robust economic ties and further expanded to include areas such as political relations, trade and investment, education, and people-to-people contacts.

Sadiq highlighted the importance of regular interactions between the political leadership, parliamentarians, and business communities of both countries, believing that such exchanges could elevate the bilateral relationship to new heights.

He specifically stressed the need for more frequent dialogue between Pakistani and Swedish parliamentarians, to exchange views and share experiences.

He noted that Pakistan could greatly benefit from the extensive 600-year democratic history and experience of Sweden.

The speaker also said that the current parliament is vibrant and has demonstrated remarkable unanimity on matters of national importance. He also mentioned that the revival of the economy, through favorable investment policies and enhanced trade relations with foreign countries, is the government’s top priority.

The speaker pointed out that the government has created a favourable environment for foreign investment by introducing various incentives and reforms in the economic sector. He urged Swedish investors to explore opportunities in key sectors such as energy generation, telecommunications, oil exploration, trade, and manufacturing, where significant potential for growth exists.

The speaker also conveyed Pakistan’s appreciation for its relations with Sweden, particularly the contributions made by Swedish companies operating in Pakistan’s economy. Additionally, he shared details of his recent initiatives aimed at making the National Assembly more vibrant and responsive to the needs of the people.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025