Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Sweden’s highest honour for a Head of Government — the Royal Order of the Polar Star, Commander Grand Cross — during his official visit to Gothenburg, Sweden. This became the 31st international honour received by PM Modi so far.
About the Honour
The award was presented by Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden in the presence of Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. The honour is regarded as Sweden’s highest distinction conferred upon foreign Heads of Government.
The Royal Order of the Polar Star was instituted in 1748 by Sweden. It is awarded to foreign citizens and distinguished individuals for exceptional civic services, contributions to public duties, science, literature, and strengthening Swedish interests globally.
India–Sweden Relations
During the visit, India and Sweden discussed expanding cooperation in:
Green transition and sustainability
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Emerging technologies
Defence and security
Innovation and startups
Space cooperation
Climate action
Trade and investment
Resilient supply chains
India and Sweden share a Strategic Partnership, and bilateral trade between the two countries reportedly reached around USD 7.75 billion in 2025.
About Sweden
Capital: Stockholm
Currency: Swedish Krona
Official language: Swedish
Member of: European Union (EU), NATO (joined in 2024)
Nordic Countries
The Nordic region generally includes:
Sweden
Norway
Denmark
Finland
Iceland
India engages with these countries through the India-Nordic Summit framework.
UPSC - 2027 - Prelims cum Mains - Foundation Course / Batch Starts on 14-05-2026 
