The relations between Sweden and Brazil date back to the past and have developed over time: while in 1822, when Brazil declared its independence, Sweden already had a consul general working in the country, since 2009 we have established a close strategic partnership.
In recent years, the joint project involving the Gripen fighter jet has reinforced this partnership and produced broad results beyond the area of defence equipment. Sweden and Brazil have also formed an innovation partnership with several new opportunities for scientific cooperation, and there are good prospects for further deepening the strategic partnership, not only in terms of digitalization and automation but also in the areas of urban development, mining, bioeconomy, information and communication technology, and health.
We value our frequent dialogue on bilateral relations, both in the political and commercial fields, but we also have the ambition to strengthen our cooperation in various multilateral forums based on respect for democracy, human rights, the rule of law, sustainable development, and science. We have much to learn from each other, and that is why we enthusiastically promote the Sweden-Brazil Innovation Weeks, an event that has already become a tradition and has strengthened our partnership and work towards sustainable development, which is positive for both our countries and their citizens.