Sweden and Canada Initiate Strategic Partnership

Sweden and Canada launch a new strategic partnership aimed at deepening cooperation in security, trade, the Arctic, and green transition. The partnership will be signed on 18 November in Ottawa by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney, in conjunction with the Swedish state visit to Canada.

According to the Swedish Government Offices, the agreement includes a political framework covering five pillars: economic development, security and defence, Arctic cooperation, digital transition, and climate and energy. The new partnership constitutes a long-term commitment and will be followed up with a joint action plan.

– The strategic partnership will help strengthen our security and economic ties, says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in the press release.

In a joint statement, it is emphasised that the cooperation is anchored in shared values and interests. The parties express support for the international rules-based trading system and highlight the rapidly growing trade between the countries.

According to the statement, the cooperation will be concretised through increased defence industrial collaboration, joint research and innovation, and coordination in areas such as civil preparedness, cybersecurity, total defence, and cross-border supply preparedness. The countries also reaffirm continued support for Ukraine and joint efforts to counter Russia's ability to circumvent sanctions.

The cooperation also includes issues related to the Arctic, where Canada and Sweden emphasise the need for security, sustainable development, and cooperation with indigenous peoples. In the technology sector, deeper collaboration is planned around quantum technology, AI, space, 6G, and pharmaceutical preparedness. The climate area includes investments in fossil-free electricity production, nuclear power, and critical minerals.

A joint action programme will now be developed. Progress in the various sub-areas will be followed up annually by the responsible departments and agencies in both countries.