2010
Press release 10 September 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Greater profits for state-owned enterprises During the first half of 2010, state-owned enterprises' earnings grew by 20 per cent, while pre-tax profits rose by 42 per cent.
Earnings rose by 20 per cent during the first half of 2010, from SEK 165.0 billion to SEK 197.6 billion. The higher earnings are partly attributable to increased earnings for Vattenfall, which accounted for approximately 60 per cent of the aggregate earnings of all state-owned enterprises. LKAB continued to report major increases in earnings compared to the previous year. LKAB's earnings rose during the period from SEK 4.0 billion to SEK 12.7 billion. During the same period, the newly formed enterprises Infranord and Swedavia had a positive effect on turnover of SEK 2.1 billion and SEK 1.1 billion respectively.
Pre-tax profits rose by 42 per cent, from SEK 24.7 billion to SEK 35.2 billion. The profit after tax rose by 38 per cent, from SEK 19.8 billion to SEK 27.5 billion. LKAB reported considerably higher profits after tax compared to the same period in the previous year, from a loss of SEK 222 million to a profit of SEK 4.7 billion. Vattenfall reported lower profits after tax, down from SEK 10.7 billion to SEK 9.0 billion.
Gross investments increased by 39 per cent to SEK 36.4 (26.2) billion during the first two quarters. The bulk of the investments are attributable to Vattenfall and LKAB, which are continuing with their major investment programmes. Akademiska Hus, Svenska Spel and the newly formed enterprises Infranord and Swedavia also had a positive effect on investments.
The value of the state's portfolio of listed shares (TeliaSonera, Nordea Bank and SAS) declined by 6 per cent during the first two quarters of 2010, from SEK 147.2 billion to SEK 137.9 billion.
The Government is an important company owner in Sweden. Fifty-seven enterprises are managed through the Government Offices, 43 of which are entirely state-owned and 14 partially state-owned. Three enterprises are listed on the stock exchange.
Press release 10 September 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson comments on the new entrepreneurship report from the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth A new report from the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth shows the level of entrepreneurship in society and the total number of entrepreneurs during the period 2004-2008. The report shows that just over 778 000 people, or 18.5 per cent of those working in Sweden, run a company of some form or other. This means that almost one in five people are entrepreneurs to varying extents.
The study covers all forms of entrepreneurs, i.e. self-employed people, combiners (people running a business parallel to their job), partners in close companies and operative business leaders. The study shows that the level of entrepreneurship has risen, and the largest rise has occurred during the current electoral period. Half External links of all new entrepreneurs are women. The report Forgotten enterprise - how many "I'm very pleased to read these figures. Entrepreneurship is important for jobs and enterprise throughout the entrepreneurs are there in country. This is why it is very important that more people dare to take the plunge and realise their business Sweden? is available on the ideas. The fact that women's entrepreneurship is on the rise is extremely positive. The proportion of women Swedish Agency for Economic who run businesses is relatively low in Sweden. I'm convinced that women have just as many good business and Regional Growth website ideas as men," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
It is above all in rural municipalities that the level of entrepreneurship is high. The level in metropolitan municipalities is lower, whereas a lot of the municipalities on the outskirts of major cities have a higher total level of enterprise. The highest proportion of entrepreneurship is to be found in Årjäng, Bjurholm, Berg, Sorsele and Sunne. At county level, Jämtland and Gotland have the highest proportion of entrepreneurs.
Contact Catrin Mattsson Political Adviser
Press release 26 August 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Maud Olofsson to present new, robust initiatives for Norrland's interior Tomorrow, Friday 27 August, Maud Olofsson will present new initiatives for the interior of Norrland. Also taking part in the press conference will be Helena Lindahl and Tomas Mörtsell, Riksdag candidates for the Centre Party in Västerbotten, and Yvonne Lif-Lövbrand, CEO of Hotell Borgafjäll.
Time and place 10.00 a.m. Restaurang Socialize, Vasagatan 1, Umeå
Please bring your press credentials.
We look forward to seeing you.
Contact Lisa Wärn Pressekreterare hos Maud Olofsson
Press release 19 August 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications End to regional coordinator function In light of prevailing developments with a clearer economic recovery and a dramatic reduction of redundancy notices, with a decrease in unemployment and employment on the rise, the Government considers that any measures that are still necessary should primarily be handled within the framework of regional growth efforts. For this reason, the Government today took a decision on ending the use of regional coordinators with responsibility for dealing with redundancy.
The regional coordinator function was set up in response to the increasing number of redundancies resulting from the global economic and financial crisis during autumn 2008. This decentralised approach has contributed to focusing efforts, dialogue and more efficient use of resources, and has also been cited by the OECD as a good example of coordinating measures during the crisis.
"It is important that the experiences of cooperation, more efficient working methods and use of resources that resulted from the coordination efforts are now put to use and can continue to be developed within the framework of regional growth efforts," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
The task of acting as regional coordinator for dealing with redundancy has been assigned to county governors and, in those counties where there are regional self-governing bodies or coordinating bodies, the chairs of the executive committees or equivalent of these bodies. The aim of the function has been to contribute to enhanced coordination of actors and existing resources at national, regional and local level to meet the needs of individuals and companies affected by the economic crisis.
"The Government wishes to express a sincere thank you to all the regional coordinators for the valuable work that has been done together with many actors, locally and regionally. Their contribution has helped Sweden get through this crisis better than many other countries," says Ms Olofsson.
Contact Catrin Mattsson Political Adviser
Press release 09 July 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Government adopts strategy for greater services innovation The Government has adopted a strategy for greater services innovation. The strategy marks the start of a project to adapt and develop policies and systems for enterprise and innovation promotion so that they take into account the conditions for innovation that exist in the services economy.
The aim is for businesses, public sector actors and other organisations in Sweden to join together in contributing to the development of services innovation and thus develop competitiveness in the economy as a whole.
"We want to do something for jobs. An increasingly large part of our economy is made up of services, and many of the jobs of the future will be created through services innovation, in all kinds of areas from travel applications on phones to improved methods of developing welfare. With this strategy we are increasing the focus on, and understanding of, how the services economy is developing. When this is transformed into innovative solutions, Sweden will have more companies and new jobs to look forward to," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
Innovation is about new or better ways of creating value. Services innovation means new or better solutions based on users' needs and their chances of taking on these solutions.
This could, for example, be about new methods of communication between users and suppliers, new ways of providing services (e.g. through new partnerships and networks), new ways of using technology to meet user needs or simply a new service.
Approximately 70 per cent of added value in Sweden is achieved in the services sector, and the remaining 30 per cent in the manufacturing sector. However, services innovation represents potential for the entire economy - for service enterprises as well as industry, and for private and public activities.
The strategy for greater services innovation was drawn up in dialogue with companies, organisations and public sector actors at local, regional and national level.
Contact Johanna Martin Political Adviser to Maud Olofsson Sara Modig Division for Research, Innovation and Industry Development +46 8 405 42 93 +46 70 696 34 75
Press release 06 July 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson comments on latest tourism figures for Sweden The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth presented new tourism figures for Sweden this morning. The total turnover from tourism increased by over 6 per cent to SEK 251.7 billion. Export value, measured as foreign visitors' consumption in Sweden, rose by almost 13 per cent to SEK 93.6 billion in 2009.
"I am extremely pleased to see this development. Tourism creates both export revenue and new jobs. And Sweden has so much to offer. From sea- bathing and beautiful 'raukar' rock formations here on Gotland, to ski holidays and ice hotels in Norrland, to large cities offering many fine attractions; and soon people will also be able to take a trip to space from Kiruna. These are just a few examples of the variety of destinations to choose from in Sweden. The Swedish tourist industry is a growing and labour-intensive sector which is primarily made up of lots of small companies. The industry employs a total of approximately 160 000 people, and we have seen an increase of almost 30 per cent since 2000. This can be compared with the total increase in employment of 4 per cent during the same period. Good general conditions for enterprise, growth throughout the country and major investments in infrastructure are important if the tourist industry is to flourish," says Ms Olofsson.
Contact Lisa Wärn Pressekreterare hos Maud Olofsson
Press release 02 July 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Administration report for state-owned enterprises for 2009 The Government today submitted its written communication on state-owned enterprises to the Riksdag. In it, the Government reports on the state management and activities of state-owned enterprises. The written communication includes the 2009 administration report for state-owned enterprises.
On the instructions of the Riksdag, the Government manages 57 enterprises that are jointly valued at approximately SEK 620 billion (500 billion the previous year). In 2009, state-owned enterprises generated a joint turnover of SEK 352.7 billion (312.5 billion). The profit after tax totalled SEK 34.7 billion (43.4 billion). Dividends totalled SEK 20.8 billion (21.8 billion).
In the administration report the Government reports on the work carried out during the electoral period of going through the portfolio of state- owned enterprises to examine the grounds for continued state ownership and of going through the various focuses and mandates of the enterprises. This work has resulted, among other things, in the sale of Vin & Sprit and Vasakronan, the sale of the state's shares in OMX, a merger between the Swedish Post Office and the Danish Post Office, and newer, clearer mandates for Sveaskog and Vattenfall. Moreover, the Government has carried out a thorough restructuring of the National Corporation of Swedish Pharmacies (Apoteket AB ) which has resulted in the sale of pharmacies, more actors and greater competition.
During the current electoral period, the Government has sold shares in state-owned enterprises to a total value of SEK 119.1 billion.
The administration report contains a follow-up of compliance with the Government's guidelines for terms of employment to check that total remuneration to senior management has been 'competitive but not market-leading'.
A special chapter contains a report on how state-owned enterprises have worked on issues concerning sustainable development and corporate social responsibility. Almost all state-owned enterprises, 94 per cent, now publish a sustainability report, in line with the GRI international guidelines; this is an improvement on 2006, when the figure was 14 per cent. Of the 100 largest enterprises on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, approximately 15 per cent present a sustainability report, according to GRI.
A summary shows that the Government's efforts to increase the proportion of women on governing boards have led to results; the proportion of women on the governing boards of state-owned enterprises continues to rise and the figure is now 49 per cent in wholly state-owned enterprises, compared to 21 per cent in stock exchange companies. The proportion of women who are chair of the board is also on the rise and is now at 34 per cent, compared to 3 per cent for stock exchange companies. There has been a drastic improvement compared to 2005, when the figure was 22 per cent.
The Government Offices' 2009 administration report for state-owned enterprises can be found (in Swedish) at: www.regeringen.se/publikationer
The state is a significant owner of enterprises in Sweden. The state company portfolio contains 57 wholly or partly owned enterprises, three of which are listed. The state has a major responsibility to be an active and professional owner. The Government's overall management objective is for the enterprises to create value and, where appropriate, to ensure that the expressed interests of society are met.
Contact Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt Jenny Didong Division for State Enterprise +46 8 405 34 50 +46 70 295 02 44
Press release 01 July 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Accreditation and professional secrecy for patent agents The Government today approved a new accreditation system under public law for patent agents. The decision, which involves the introduction of accreditation and a duty of professional secrecy for patent agents, means that Swedish agents will be able to compete on the same terms as Swedish lawyers or patent agents in other countries, for example.
"In the long term, this means an improvement to the climate of innovation in the Swedish market - and thereby also growth," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson
The new system means that accredited patent agents will be bound by professional secrecy that is regulated in law, and that, during legal proceedings, they may not be examined concerning confidential information relating to matters of patent law that has come to their knowledge in the course of their professional activities. The accreditation system also contains rules concerning disciplinary action for misconduct.
At the same time, a new government agency, the Patent Agents' Board, will be established to administer the actual accreditation process and supervise patent agents.
"We anticipate that there will be a great deal of interest in the beginning as the existing civil law accreditation systems are transferred to the new system. We expect between 350 and 500 cases in the first year of activities," says Ms Olofsson.
The new agency will be financed through fees and its office functions will be provided by the Swedish Companies Registration Office in Sundsvall. The new agency will be chaired by former Auditor-General Karin Lindell.
Press release 30 June 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Report on foreign business activities in Sweden presented today The Government's Inquiry Chair today presented a report entitled 'Foreign business activities in Sweden - a review of legislation on foreign branch offices from an EU perspective' to the Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications.
The Inquiry was tasked with conducting a general review of the Foreign Branch Offices Act (1992:160). It proposes that a notification obligation should be introduced in the Act for foreign business operators doing business in Sweden. This would make it possible to carry out independent controls of whether business activities in Sweden should be deemed permanent or not and help ensure correct implementation of the Posting of Workers Directive.
The Inquiry also proposes that guidelines should be introduced in the Foreign Branch Offices Act and other legislation to support assessments of whether foreign business activities should be considered temporary or permanent, which is important in terms of whether they are 'providing services' or 'established' under EU legislation.
In addition, the Inquiry proposes that the Government should no longer take decisions on exemptions from the requirements concerning branch offices, but rather that it should be possible to appeal such decisions to the general administrative courts.
Finally, the Inquiry has a range of proposals to simplify and modernise legislation on branch offices to make business opportunities easier for companies and adapt it to other Swedish company law.
Contact Elisabeth Kristensson Market and Competition Division +46 8 405 14 41 +46 76 140 45 29 Inquiry Chair: Dr Jörgen Hettne +46 8 454 47 13 +46 73 916 08 97
Press release 15 June 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications OECD notes progress regarding a better regulatory environment Since spring 2008, the OECD has been reviewing various aspects of regulatory simplification and the interaction between national, regional and local level in the 'EU 15' countries. The final report regarding the review of Sweden was considered during spring 2010.
At a seminar today at the Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications, the OECD presented parts of the report and gave its reflections on the current and future work on regulatory simplification.
In the relatively extensive report, the OECD notes that considerable progress has been made during the current electoral period and that the present Government has shown a very strong determination to continue developing the work on better regulation.
In addition, the OECD notes that Sweden has improved its regulatory reform efforts in several respects in recent years, particularly regarding what can be described as the tools and infrastructure of better regulation.
The final report contains some 50 recommendations for future regulatory simplification measures and for how work with these issues can be strengthened in the EU at national, regional and local level.
Looking ahead, the Government intends to analyse these recommendations for better regulation.
Contact Göran Grén Director, Market and Competition Division +46 8 405 48 08 +46 70 996 79 82
Press release 10 June 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Government to invest in young entrepreneurs The Government has approved a programme to promote entrepreneurship among young people aged 18-30. The decision is part of the three-year investment of SEK 20 million per annum announced by the Government in the 2010 Budget Bill. The Government has previously approved funding via Almi for mentorship programmes and to Venture Cup to strengthen programmes for young innovators.
The programme will aim to stimulate entrepreneurship among young people and give more young people the opportunity to commercialise their ideas, for example through business opportunities or licensing, increase awareness of the needs of young entrepreneurs and make young entrepreneurs more visible. Measures will include awareness-raising and network initiatives and strengthening existing entities that work closely with young people, such as Drivhuset and similar initiatives.
"There is enormous potential young people's ideas and we must become better at drawing this out and using it. The aim of the decision taken today is to encourage more young people to think innovatively and ensure that more of them can receive support and assistance in developing their ideas into complete services and products, which can create more sustainable businesses and new jobs," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
The Government is giving the Swedish Agency for Innovation Systems and the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth the joint task of developing and implementing the programme. To reach out to young people and meet their needs, a reference group consisting of individuals from the target groups will be linked to the programme.
Contact Lisa Wärn Pressekreterare hos Maud Olofsson Marika Kurlberg Entrepreneurship Division +46 8 405 39 53 +46 70 2592610
Press release 01 June 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Greater gender equality on boards of state-owned companies Gender equality continues to improve in state-owned companies. This is illustrated in a survey carried out by the Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications after this year's general meetings were held. In wholly state- owned companies, the proportion of women is now 49 per cent, compared with 48 per cent last year.
The proportion of women who are chair of the board is 34 per cent, which shows a marked improvement during the electoral period. In 2006, the figure was 22 per cent. The proportion of boards with a balanced gender distribution, i.e. at least 40 per cent of each sex, has increased during the electoral period, from 61 per cent to 85 per cent this year.
"The Government's work in state-owned companies shows that goal-oriented efforts produce results. This is a very positive development, which shows that when you make the effort, you can find qualified women who are willing to take responsibility. In this regard, state-owned companies are a true model for the rest of the business sector," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
"But there is obviously more to be done. For example, the proportion of women who are CEOs is much too low, as is the proportion of women on management teams, even if this has increased from 31 per cent last year to 35 per cent in 2010."
"I raise these issues every time I meet with boards and companies, most recently today at the Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications' annual board seminar with state-owned companies, to which all board members and CEOs were invited. Step by step, gender equality in state-owned companies is getting better," says Ms Olofsson.
Contact Jenny Didong Division for State Enterprise
+46 8 405 34 50 +46 70 295 02 44
Press release 28 May 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications The regulatory burden for Sweden's businesses continues to ease Simplifying everyday life for Sweden's enterprises is a natural and important part of the Government's jobs policy. The heart of the work has been to draw up rules and processes so that they are better adapted to business conditions and reality. The Government today submitted a final report on the work of regulatory reform to the Riksdag.
It shows a strengthening of the positive trend of a reduced regulatory burden in the past year. All in all, from 2006 to 2010 net administrative costs of enterprises decreased by 7.3 per cent. This is just over SEK 7 billion in reduced annual costs for companies. Looking exclusively at the measures of regulatory reform taken, the burden has fallen by as much as 11 per cent.
"Thanks to clear objectives and an ambitious simplification programme, we are well on our way to doing what others have just talked about, we have simplified the everyday life of businesspeople," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
Substantial rise in the level of the work The material submitted to the Riksdag today is the result of extensive and ambitious work carried out in close cooperation with the business sector in twelve ministries and up to 53 government agencies during the entire electoral period. The annual follow-ups of ministries' and agencies' reforms show a substantial rise in the level of the work during the current electoral period. One example is considerably more widespread and ongoing consultation with the business sector aimed at simplifying the rules. Measurements are used more systematically to identify proposed simplification. Moreover, regulatory reform has become a natural and integrated part of the regulators' normal work. There is now greater awareness of the work among officials in ministries and agencies and a change has taken place in attitudes and approaches.
In 2006 the Government formulated clear objectives and fundamentally reformed the work of simplifying the rules by setting up an infrastructure for the work, including a Better Regulation Council and carrying out full measurements of administrative costs of enterprises. Great progress has been made, which is also acknowledged by the OECD in its latest report on Sweden.
More than 1 150 measures The work of regulatory reform includes a total of more than 1 150 measures. About 270 measures are being implemented, planned or examined on the initiative of the Government and almost 880 measures by agencies under the Government. More than 590 measures have been implemented in the period 2007-2009. Of the remaining 560 plus measures some can be accomplished in the short term while others must be analysed more, be investigated and possibly referred before a final position and any decision can be taken. Over half of the measures aim to reduce administrative costs of enterprises, but there are also several measures that lead to improved service and accessibility, shorter processing times and coordination of information gathering.
The work of simplification done by the Government in this electoral period has clearly placed Sweden as one of the leading countries in Europe in this area: Sweden is one of seven countries in the EU that have carried out full measurements of administrative costs of enterprises. Besides Sweden, only three countries in the EU have set up better regulation councils. Through the Swedish Presidency in autumn 2009 Sweden not only drove developments forward, but was also able to introduce a discussion of the future work of simplification in the EU.
Contact Håkan Lind Chief of Press Staff at the Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Jacqueline Deniz-Kiviharju Deputy Director +46 8 405 39 61
Press release 20 May 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Historic meeting for Barents region Representatives of the Barents countries met in Umeå on 18-19 May to discuss raw material and energy assets in the region. Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson invited her counterparts to this meeting, which was the first of its kind within Barents cooperation.
The meeting focused on strengthening the region through more effective use of natural resources and the potential for renewable energy. It discussed how to strengthen growth and increase job opportunities in the region, and how to strengthen understanding of the strategic importance of the region, both in the EU and Download globally. Declaration: Barents Euro- "Having been on the periphery, we are now the centre of attention. The entire world needs raw materials and Arctic Council First Meeting renewable energy, and this can provide many new jobs in the region. I believe in increased cooperation in the of the Ministers for area of knowledge; businesses in the region face the same kinds of issues and challenges. One example is how Competitiveness (pdf 95 kB) to make most effective use of our forests," says Ms Olofsson.
Declaration adopted A declaration was adopted at the meeting, establishing that the region holds very great economic potential and stating that we must move together towards sustainable development. It also highlighted the importance of shaping policy and market conditions so as to stimulate investment, innovation and entrepreneurship towards a green economy. Work will now continue on a more concrete level in the working groups that form part of the cooperation process.
Contact Lisa Wärn Press Secretary +46 70 305 47 74
Press release 19 May 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Higher earnings and improved profits for state-owned enterprises in the first quarter of 2010 During the first quarter of 2010 earnings rose by 23 per cent, from SEK 86.4 billion to SEK 106.1 billion. The higher earnings are partly attributable to increased earnings for Vattenfall, which accounted for approximately 67 per cent of the aggregate earnings of all state-owned enterprises. LKAB reported substantially higher earnings for the quarter than in the previous year. Infranord, a new enterprise established at the beginning of the year, has also had a positive effect on turnover.
Pre-tax profits rose by 9 per cent, from SEK 16.0 billion to SEK 17.4 billion. The profit after tax was improved by 4 per cent, from SEK 12.8 billion to SEK 13.3 billion. Vattenfall reported lower profits after tax, down from SEK 8.1 billion to SEK 3.8 billion. LKAB reported a profit after tax that was SEK 733 million better than in the same period in the previous year, rising from SEK 251 million to SEK 984 million.
Gross investments increased by 7 per cent to SEK 13.0 (12.1) billion during the first quarter. The bulk of the investments are due to Vattenfall and LKAB, which are continuing with their investment programmes. Sveaskog, Jernhusen and Svenska Spel reported increased investments. Two newly established enterprises, Infranord and Fouriertransform, influenced investments positively by SEK 859 million and SEK 248 million respectively during the quarter.
The value of the state's portfolio of listed shares (TeliaSonera, Nordea Bank and SAS) declined by 2 per cent during the first quarter of 2010, from SEK 147.2 billion to SEK 144.2 billion.
The state is a significant owner of enterprises in Sweden. Fifty-six enterprises are managed through the Government Offices, 43 of which are entirely state-owned and 13 partially state-owned. Three enterprises are listed on the stock exchange.
Contact Jenny Didong Desk Officer Division for State Enterprise +46 8 405 34 50
Press release 10 May 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications King and Deputy Prime Minister to visit China His Majesty the King and Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson will be in China from 19 to 24 May for a visit to Beijing and Shanghai.
They will begin their visit in Beijing, from 19 to 22 May, attending meetings with the Chinese government and the Swedish-Chinese High Level Forum on Innovation. Enterprise agreements will also be signed in connection with the Forum.
The aim of the trip is to strengthen cooperation with China on innovation, environmental technology and issues concerning small businesses and corporate social responsibility, and to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations between Sweden and China.
Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson will give the opening address at the Global Summit of Women, which brings together female political leaders from around the world. This time the focus will be on women's entrepreneurship.
In Shanghai from 22 to 24 May, His Majesty the King and Ms Olofsson will visit the World Expo and take part in a round-table discussion with Swedish and Chinese companies and a major conference looking at innovation and growth, organised by Vinnova. The theme of Sweden's participation in the World Expo is 'Spirit of Innovation'.
They will be accompanied on the trip by a top-level business delegation including representatives of several of Sweden's biggest companies. China is Sweden's most important trade partner in Asia and the aim is to deepen economic cooperation and create new business.
Accreditation for media There are opportunities for media to participate in parts of the programme. For accreditation and further information on the programme in Beijing, please contact Embassy Secretary Markus Lundgren. For accreditation and further information on the programme in Shanghai, please contact Maria Warren at the Committee for Sweden's Participation in World Expo 2010 in Shanghai. If you have questions concerning the business delegation, please contact Katinka Palmgren at the Swedish Trade Council.
Contact Frank Nilsson Press Secretary to Maud Olofsson +46 70 690 24 33
Markus Lundgren Embassy Secretary Beijing +86 1370 123 9463
Maria Warren Press contact Expo 2010 Shanghai +86 1582 159 1029
Katinka Palmgren Head of Communications Swedish Trade Council +46 76 112 11 23
Press release 12 April 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Maud Olofsson to visit Polish Embassy Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson is paying a visit to the Polish Embassy in Stockholm today, Monday, to express the Swedish Government's condolences over the air disaster on Saturday.
Time and place Related Time: Monday 12 April at 15.00 Statement by Prime Minister Place: Polish Embassy, Karlavägen 35, Stockholm Fredrik Reinfeldt
Contact Frank Nilsson Press Secretary +46 70 690 24 33
Press release 24 March 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications A new strategy for Sweden land of adventure To enable more people to discover Sweden as a land of adventure the Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications is today presenting a new initiative to coordinate the agencies concerned in development of new and old tourist destinations. The initiative entails setting up a partnership for businesses to contact when the want to get in touch with government agencies and private actors. The partnership's task will be to support the development of the tourist industry.
"It should be easy for small businesses to gain access to professional development, business networks, meeting places and help in finding funding to develop their operations," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson. Related Promotion of Sweden The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth and Visit Sweden are instructed to lead the partnership, together with the Swedish Maritime Administration, the Swedish Transport Agency, the National Public Transport Agency, the Swedish Board of Agriculture, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, the National Heritage Board, Vinnova (the Swedish Agency for Innovation Systems) and the new government agency the Swedish Transport Administration. They are to work with the industry and regions to promote partnerships for destination development.
"Sweden - the new culinary nation" "If small adventure businesses are to flourish there must be cooperation around a destination with well- functioning infrastructure, accessible transport services, good accommodation, good food and commerce in a unique and sustainable environment. We hope that the new partnership will enable tourist companies that want to grow to spend less time on administration and more time on developing their destinations," says Minister for Communications Åsa Torstensson.
The Alliance Government has previously done a lot to strengthen the tourist industry. More than 170 measures have been implemented to create a world class business climate; Visit Sweden has received an extra SEK 170 million during the electoral period for marketing Sweden as a tourist nation and the Alliance Government has adopted a strategy to strengthen developmental capacity in Sweden's rural areas. In addition a major initiative is being implemented called "Sweden - the new culinary nation".
Contact Håkan Lind Head of Press Service for Maud Olofsson +46 70 269 11 98 Kenneth Hultgren Press Secretary to Åsa Torstensson +46 70 593 08 77
Catrin Mattsson Political Adviser to Maud Olofsson +46 76 773 22 83
Maria Anstett-Andersson Political Adviser to Åsa Torstensson +46 70 224 51 58
Press release 24 March 2010 Prime Minister's Office Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt and Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson to receive Vice President Xi Jinping On Monday 29 March Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt and Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson are to receive Vice President Xi Jinping.
Webcast The press conference at 10.15 in Bella Venezia, Rosenbad, will be webcast
The agenda includes talks on bilateral cooperation areas between Sweden and China, such as the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, trade relations, follow-up of the climate change conference in Copenhagen and follow-up of the economic and financial crisis. Other current foreign affairs issues may also be discussed.
Programme points for Mr Reinfeldt and Ms Olofsson Monday 29 March: 09.00 Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt receives Vice President Xi Jinping. Place: Entrance to Rosenbad Photo opportunity on arrival
09.05 Talks between Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt and Vice President Xi Jinping. Place: Rosenbad Photo pool at the start of the meeting
10.00 Signing ceremony Place: Rosenbad Photo pool
10.15 Brief press conference Place: Bella Venezia, Rosenbad
11.15 Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson and Vice President Xi Jinping are keynote speakers at the Sweden-China Business Cooperation and Innovation Forum. Place: Blue Hall, Stockholm City Hall Photo pool
12.00 Signing ceremony Place: Blue Hall, Stockholm City Hall Photo pool
12.30 Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson hosts official welcome lunch, including celebration of 60 years of diplomatic relations. Place: Golden Hall, Stockholm City Hall Photo pool
Welcome!
Note Special accreditation is needed to cover the visit on site - as well as for access to Rosenbad. Vice President Xi Jinping to make official visits The programme includes visits in Stockholm and Gothenburg. Among those the Vice President will meet during the visit are HM The King and the Speaker of the Riksdag. In Gothenburg on Sunday, the Vice President will visit the ship 'Götheborg' and engineering company SKF. On Monday, the Vice President and Ms Olofsson will attend the opening ceremony of the Sweden-China Business Cooperation and Innovation Forum at Stockholm City Hall. Other places the Vice President will visit are Hammarby Sjöstad, together with Minister for Migration and Asylum Policy Tobias Billström, and Stockholm University.
Contact Roberta Alenius Presschef hos Fredrik Reinfeldt +46 8 405 49 04 Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt
Press release 22 March 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Clearer assignment for Vattenfall Today the Government submitted the Government Bill 'A clearer assignment for Vattenfall AB' to the Riksdag. It proposes that Vattenfall's assignment be to generate market-rate returns by operating energy services so that the company is one of those leading developments towards environmentally sustainable energy production.
The aim is to clarify Vattenfall's strategic direction, in accordance with what was presented at the company's annual general meeting in 2009. Related "We are now formally implementing the clarifications that were the result of last year's strategy work together State-owned companies with the board. Vattenfall is to focus on profitability, sustainable energy and the brand," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
Vattenfall is currently Europe's fifth largest electricity producer and an international company with the External links majority of its employees and income outside the Nordic region. The markets in which Vattenfall operates are The web page of Vattenfall increasingly governed by the Europe 2020 targets and political ambitions to create a more sustainable energy system in Europe. Investments in renewable energy will therefore increase, as will the demand for expertise in low-emission energy production.
"It is in these changing markets that are open to competition that Vattenfall's strategic direction will lead to better profitability and competitiveness. This is why Vattenfall is to be a company leading developments towards environmentally sustainable energy production," says Ms Olofsson.
Contact Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt
Press release 22 March 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Change in instructions for Sveaskog AB The Government has decided to change the instructions for Sveaskog, which means that the company's future direction and task will be more clearly defined. Sveaskog is to generate market-rate returns by being an independent actor, with its core activities in forestry without major interests of its own as an end-user of forestry primary products.
"We are now clarifying Sveaskog's task and role. Sveaskog will now have a more clearly defined task, which means that the company can concentrate more on its core activity, forestry, which will produce greater returns for the Swedish people," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson. Related Forestry in Sweden To achieve the environmental quality objectives set for forestry, the Government proposes that forestry real estate amounting to a total area of at most 100 000 hectares of productive land will be transferred from Sveaskog to the state, to be subsequently used as compensatory land. This means that the forests that have long been identified as deserving protection can now receive this protection. Sveaskog's task to provide External links compensatory land to the state will thereby cease at the end of 2010. The webpage of Sveaskog "The present system for compensatory land has not contributed to achieving the environmental quality objectives to a sufficient extent. The system is considered to be inefficient and relatively expensive. This is why we now want to change the procedure, so that we can achieve our environmental quality goals while enabling Sveaskog to operate on purely commercial terms in the future," says Ms Olofsson.
Sveaskog will also conclude the ongoing land sales programme, aimed at increasing private forestry and enabling reallocation of land holdings. Sales of land will take place until ten per cent of the area owned by the company in 2002, when the company was formed, has been sold.
Contact Frank Nilsson Press Secretary +46 70 690 24 33
Patrik Jönsson Deputy Director +46 8 405 48 87
Press release 17 March 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications New steps in collaboration on energy when Sweden and South Africa met for the Binational Commission On the 16th to 17th of March, Sweden and South Africa met in Cape Town under the lead of Deputy President Motlanthe and Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson for the 6th Binational Commission. On top of the agenda for discussions were the climate challenge and bilateral energy collaboration.
The Commission highlighted the important role South Africa plays in the continuous process of climate negotiations both as an active African voice and as the host of COP17 in 2011. At the core of discussion was also how Sweden and South Africa jointly can work forward to contribute to the process of reaching a global Related legally binding agreement on climate. Press release: Maud Olofsson to visit South Africa for "Sweden and South Africa are good partners in the international community, which gives us good ground for discussions in the framework taking joint action on focal issues. Reaching a global agreement on climate is central if we are to fulfil our of the Binational Commission shared vision of a world which is worthy of its inhabitants and future generations" says Deputy President A new Swedish Africa policy Motlanthe.
Business included in the process During the meeting Sweden and South Africa took new steps in collaboration on energy by establishing a new Task Team on renewable energy cooperation. The Task Team will identify concrete projects of collaboration within the areas of energy efficiency and renewable energy with the aim of contributing to sustainable rural development. The aim is to include both Swedish and South African business in the process.
"We are facing challenging times where we have to transform into an eco efficient economy. In achieving that, energy is a crucial area to work with. Energy efficiency as well as renewable energy will not only lower our emissions and costs but also enable for new business opportunities, jobs and economic growth. This cooperation can be a win win situation in gain for both our countries and the climate" says Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson.
Partner driven cooperation The parties also agreed on that the tripartite cooperation is a successful model that should be extended. That means South Africa and Sweden working together in cooperation with a third country.
The Binational Commission had several other issues on the agenda. The longstanding bilateral ties between the two nations, peace, security and democracy in Africa, the situation in Zimbabwe, trade and business relations, and other relevant issues.
Finally, both parties agreed to take further steps to implement partner driven cooperation as a modality for pursuing outcome orientated programs and projects.
Contact Johanna Martin Press Secretary +46 70 305 47 74
Press release 12 March 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Maud Olofsson to visit South Africa for discussions in the framework of the Binational Commission On 16-17 March 2010, the Binational Commission between Sweden and South Africa will hold its sixth meeting in Cape Town, chaired by Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe and Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson.
Discussions will focus on our bilateral relations. Other expected topics include peace, security and democracy issues in Africa, climate and energy issues, industrial policy issues, cooperation in the UN and other current international issues. Related A new Swedish Africa Policy Discussions will be held in three main areas: political, economic and development promotion issues. Various Press release: New steps in proposals for cooperation in third countries, joint projects and seminars will be discussed with a view to collaboration on energy when further strengthening bilateral relations and promoting trade exchange between Sweden and South Africa. Sweden and South Africa met for the Binational Commission
Close political relations The Binational Commission (BNC) is an expression of the close political relations that exist between Sweden and South Africa. The Commission was set up at the initiative of the then Prime Minister Göran Persson and President Thabo Mbeki in connection with the major Sweden-South Africa event in 1999. The BNC is a framework involving policy instruments for broadening and deepening relations, and provides a platform for regular dialogue and for identifying and implementing joint projects and programmes.
The first BNC meeting was held in Stockholm in October 2000, when the then Deputy President Mbeki led the South African delegation. The most recent meeting of the BNC was held in Stockholm in October 2007, when Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson and Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka led their delegations.
Will meet students at Cape Town University In addition to the binational discussions, during her visit to Cape Town Ms Olofsson will meet with Swedish companies operating in South Africa and address students at Cape Town University.
For information and details concerning the programme, please contact Press Secretary Johanna Martin.
Contact Johanna Martin Press Secretary +46 70-305 47 74
Press release 10 March 2010 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Government bill "The electricity certificate system: higher target and further development" presented today The government bill proposes extending the electricity certificate system until the end of 2035. Under the proposal, quota obligations will be adjusted in line with the new target for renewable energy production, which involves an increase of 25 TWh by 2020 compared with the level in 2002. The quota obligation will be calculated on the basis of new quotas that will apply from 2013 to 2035. According to the proposal, the amendments in the Electricity Certificate Act will enter into force on 1 July 2010.
The Government also presents an assessment indicating that the electricity certificate system should be developed to include more countries. The aim is for a common market with Norway to be established, starting on 1 January 2012.
The bill also announces that the Swedish Energy Agency will receive instructions, in consultation with the National Institute of Economic Research, to produce supplementary data for deciding on appropriate measures to keep down the costs of electricity certificates for consumers.
Contact Frank Nilsson Press Secretary +46 70 690 24 33 Erik Thornström Desk Officer +46 8 405 14 53 2009
Press release 16 November 2009 Prime Minister's Office Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Ministry for Foreign Affairs EU-Russia summit in Stockholm On Wednesday, 18 November Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt will chair the EU summit with Russia. Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson and Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt will also attend the summit.
The EU will also be represented at the summit by President of the Commission José Manuel Barroso and EU High Representative Javier Solana.
The two priority issues during the Swedish Presidency - climate change and the economic and financial crisis - will be discussed, as will energy issues, foreign affairs, trade policy and human rights.
Bilateral talks between Sweden and Russia will also take place.
Programme points: 10.50 Official welcome with José Manuel Barroso. Photo pool. Place: Strömsalongerna, Grand Hôtel.
11.00 Summit opens. Place: Spegelsalen.
12.30 Group photograph. Place: Strömsalongerna.
13.00 Working lunch. Place: Spegelsalen.
15.00 Press conference. Place: Stockholmsrummet.
For questions concerning photo pools please contact Marie Hadd, tel: +46 708 126 198 or Jan Janonius, tel: +46 708 478 958.
Accreditation Accreditation can be obtained from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs Press Centre, Fredsgatan 6, on 17 November between 13.00 and 20.00, and on 18 November between 7.00 and 16.00.
Entry for journalists to Grand Hôtel is via Stallgatan 6 (Royal entrance).
We look forward to seeing you.
Contact Roberta Alenius +46 8 405 10 00 Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt Anna Charlotta Johansson +46 8 405 00 00
Press release 23 October 2009 Prime Minister's Office Fredrik Reinfeldt and Maud Olofsson to take part in Nordic Council The meeting of Nordic and Baltic prime ministers and the 61st Session of the Nordic Council will be held in Stockholm, beginning on Monday and Tuesday, 26-27 October. Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt and Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson will chair the meetings.
Agenda, etc. On Monday, Mr Reinfeldt will chair discussions between the Nordic and the Baltic prime ministers. The agenda includes the road to a new global climate agreement in Copenhagen in December and the international External links economic and financial crisis. Official co-operation in the Nordic region On Tuesday, the meeting of Nordic prime ministers will begin in the Riksdag. The focus of the agenda will be discussions on the Nordic region's role in EU cooperation. The issues include how to continue deepening cooperation between the Nordic countries, the ongoing work on removing border barriers between the Nordic countries and identifying future challenges. The EU Baltic Sea Strategy will also be discussed. All Nordic countries and autonomous territories will be represented by a large number of parliamentarians and members of government. Invited representatives and guests from the Baltic States, Russia and other parts of the world will also attend.
Nordic foreign, defence, environment, finance and culture ministers will also hold separate meetings during the course of the session.
Background The 61st Session of the Nordic Council will be held on 27-29 October 2009. Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and the autonomous territories the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Åland work together in the official Nordic cooperation represented by the Nordic Council and the Nordic Council of Ministers. Sweden holds the Presidency of the Nordic Council in 2009.
Programme points Monday 26 October 16.30 Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt chairs the meeting of Nordic and Baltic prime ministers. Photo opportunity. Place: Rosenbad.
18.00 Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt takes part in a joint press briefing with the Nordic and Baltic prime ministers. Place: Bella Venezia, Rosenbad.
Tuesday 27 October 09.30 Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson takes part in the meeting of the Nordic prime ministers. Place: Riksdagen, Skandia Room.
11.30 Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson takes part in a joint press briefing with the Nordic prime ministers, followed by a press briefing with national media. Place: Riksdagen, First Chamber.
14.30 The 61st Session of the Nordic Council begins. Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt takes part in the opening debate on "The Role of the Nordic Region in EU Cooperation". Place: Riksdagen, Plenary Chamber.
Accreditation Accreditation is required to attend the session. An accreditation application must be made by 23 October via: www.norden.org/sv/nordiska-raadet/sessioner-och-moeten/sessioner/session-2009/information-till- pressen (Press material will be sent by email to accredited journalists.)
More information about the official Nordic cooperation is available at: www.norden.org/sv. Welcome!
Contact Niclas Bengtsson +46 8 405 10 00 Markus Nordström Press Assistant +46 8 405 10 00 Johanna Martin Press Secretary to Maud Olofsson +46 8 405 24 33 +46 70 206 75 62 email to Johanna Martin
Press release 21 July 2009 Ministry of the Environment Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Informal ministerial meetings in Åre highlight Europe's potential for an eco- efficient economy As EU energy and environment ministers gather for a joint informal meeting in Åre on 23-25 July, the Swedish Presidency is highlighting the potential of an eco-effective economy. Among those specially invited to speak on European opportunities in the transition to an eco-efficient economy is the British economist Lord Nicholas Stern.
The eco-efficiency theme recurs at several ministerial councils during the Swedish EU Presidency. The first time will be at this informal meeting of energy and environment ministers, then later in the autumn at the meeting of competitiveness ministers. Download Programme: Informal Meeting "We want to create a common understanding of Europe's potential to overcome the economic crisis through a of the Energy and green wave moving towards stronger competitiveness, prosperity and new jobs. An eco-efficient economy can Environment Ministers (pdf pave the way for new jobs, where small- and medium-sized enterprises play a central role in new innovative 162 kB) solutions, growth and jobs," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson. Presentation from the press conference (ppt 750 kB) "If we are to manage climate change with growing economies we must adapt the way we build, live and move around. Global demand for environmental solutions that contribute to that transformation will be great. By adapting early, the EU can gain a competitive edge while doing our bit for the climate," says Minister for the Environment Andreas Carlgren. External links Read the report A European By highlighting examples, the Presidency wants to show how committed and proactive environmental work Eco-Efficient Economy - can result in international competitive advantages. At the same time, the Swedish Presidency wants to Governing climate, energy and contribute to the discussion on how a new Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs will result in a greener Europe. competitiveness. The ministerial discussions on an eco-efficient economy also provide an opportunity to strengthen the EU position ahead of the climate negotiations in Copenhagen.
The energy ministers will start their meeting on Thursday with a discussion on an action plan for energy efficiency. The ministers will also review proposed legislation for energy efficient buildings and labelling of energy efficient products and tyres.
The joint session of environment and energy ministers on Friday will discuss European potential on the basis of the background report for the meeting by the Stockholm Environment Institute: A European Eco-Efficient Economy - Governing climate, energy and competitiveness. In connection with the working session, Lord Nicholas Stern and South African Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs Buyelwa Patience Sonjica will deliver addresses. The Executive Director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAE) Nobuo Tanaka will participate in the panel debate that follows.
The environment ministers will continue to discuss an eco-efficient economy and contribution to the Lisbon Strategy together with John Hontelez from the European Environmental Bureau (EEB) and Jacqueline McGlade from the European Environment Agency (EEA).
The environment ministers will then focus on the climate change issue. The Presidency is now gathering the ministers ahead of the final autumn spurt in the negotiations up to the UN Climate Conference in Copenhagen. The invited guests include Michael Zammit Cutajar and John Ashe, who will chair the working groups in the UN climate negotiations.
Contact Johanna Martin Press Secretary to Maud Olofsson +46 8 405 24 33 +46 70 206 75 62 email to Johanna Martin Anna Bäckman +46 8 405 10 00 Frank Nilsson Press Secretary to Andreas Carlgren 070-690 24 33
Press release 08 July 2009 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications The Ministry of Enterprise and Energy calls for Vattenfall to report on their work regarding nuclear safety The Swedish Ministry of Enterprise and Energy calls for a special report from the state owned company Vattenfall AB on how they work with nuclear safety. The request has arisen due to the problems that have occurred in some of the nuclear reactors in Germany as well as the criticism which the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority has leveled against the safety routines at the Swedish nuclear power station Ringhals.
- These repeated incidents related to nuclear safety at Vattenfall's plants, is something the owner takes very seriously. We assume that Vattenfall will give the highest priority to improving the safety routines at their nuclear power stations, says State Secretary Ola Alterå.
- The owner made it very clear during Vattenfall's stakeholders' annual meeting this spring, that one of the most important expectations we have on the company now, is to improve the confidence in their company brand. The incidents these last few days have unfortunately damaged the confidence in the company both in Sweden and Germany, says Ola Alterå.
The Ministry of Enterprise and Energy has also contacted the German Federal Government in order to get their picture of the situation around the nuclear reactors in Germany.
Contact Johanna Martin Press Secretary to Maud Olofsson +46 8 405 24 33 +46 70 206 75 62 email to Johanna Martin Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt
Press release 16 June 2009 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Maud Olofsson comments on the signing of a letter of intent to purchase Saab
"It is good that the Saab ownership issue is now being resolved. This is a decision that the company's employees, the town of Trollhättan, the Västra Götaland region and the Government have been waiting for", says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
The letter of intent between the parties means that the National Debt Office can now initiate negotiations with Saab and its future owners on the conditions for state credit guarantees for loans from the European Investment Bank (EIB), if the new owners so wish. The guarantees relate to EIB loans for the implementation of projects aiming to develop safer and more environmentally friendly cars. Before a Government decision can be taken to provide guarantees, the EIB must approve the framework for the loans and the European Commission must approve the terms of the state credit guarantees.
Contact Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt
Press release 14 May 2009 Prime Minister's Office Ministers' engagements weeks 21-22 2009
Subject to change.
For further information contact the Minister's press secretary. Related Press contacts Calendar for Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt Prime Minister's Office Calendar for Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt Calendar for Minister for Trade Ewa Björling Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt 18 May Travel in Sweden
20 May Party leader debate ahead of European Parliament election, Riksdag
25 May Travel in Sweden
Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt 18 May Participation in GAERC, Brussels Visit to Göteborg, Sweden
21 May Visit to Warsaw Visegrad Meeting
24-26 May ASEM, Hanoi
27-28 May Visit to Phnom Penh
Minister for Trade Ewa Björling 18 May Visit to Göteborg, Sweden
19 May Visit to Almi Företagspartner (Almi Business Partner)
19 May Dialogue meeting on the export ban on Swedish snuff in the EU internal market
20 May Advisory Committee on EU Affairs, Riksdag Meeting with World Bank President Robert B. Zoellick at World Bank meeting, Helsinki
25 May Speech at Africa Day Seminar on Strategic Partnerships for African Development, Stockholm 27 May Main speaker and award presenter at SwedenBIO's Annual General Meeting
27 May Informal meeting with African ambassadors based in Stockholm on EPA negotiations
28 May Competitiveness Council, Brussels
29 May Visit to Tranås, Sweden
Press release 07 May 2009 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Ministry for Foreign Affairs Nigeria's Vice President leads major trade delegation to Sweden Nigeria's Vice President Dr Goodluck Jonathan is to visit Sweden on 11-12 May, together with the speaker of the Nigerian parliament, four state governors, four ministers and some 60 business leaders.
Hosting the visit in Sweden is Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson. The delegation will also be received by Minister for Trade Ewa Björling, who will also host a dinner for the Vice President and his delegation.
Apart from the official meetings, the delegation will take part in the Swedish Nigerian Economic Forum, arranged by the Swedish Trade Council and the Nigerian Embassy in Stockholm. The delegation will also visit a number of companies during its stay in Sweden.
Programme points: Monday 11 May 19.30 Dinner at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, hosted by Minister for Trade Ewa Björling Place: Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Gustav Adolfs Torg 1- photo opportunity
Tuesday 12 May 08.30 Talks between Dr Björling, the state governors and ministers Place: Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Gustav Adolfs Torg 1- photo opportunity
09.45 Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson to meet Vice President Dr Goodluck Jonathan Place: Entrance, Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications, Mäster Samuelsgatan 70 - photo opportunity
Please bring your press credentials. No prior application is required for the photo opportunities.
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This is one of the largest Nigerian trade delegations ever put together and the visit underlines the growing importance of Swedish-Nigerian trade relations. Nigeria is Sweden's second largest trade partner in sub-Saharan Africa. The Swedish business presence in Nigeria is strong, with good growth potential, particularly in the telecoms, agricultural and energy sectors.
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa with approximately 150 million inhabitants; and Africa's third largest economy, after South Africa and Egypt.
Contact Johanna Martin Press Secretary to Maud Olofsson +46 8 405 24 33 +46 70 206 75 62 email to Johanna Martin Monica Enqvist (fd Ohlsson) Press Secretary to Ewa Björling +46 8 405 37 11 +46 70 296 18 99 email to Monica Enqvist (fd Ohlsson) Karin Bolin Desk Officer, Africa Department, Ministry for Foreign Affairs +46 8 405 26 44 +46 70889 87 54
Press release 10 March 2009 Ministry of Finance Ministry of the Environment Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications New green cars to be exempted from vehicle tax Green cars will be exempted from vehicle tax for five years, while vehicle tax will be raised by SEK 5 per gram of carbon dioxide a car emits. The vehicle tax on heavy goods vehicles and large buses will be lowered and the energy tax on diesel raised by SEK 0.40 per litre by 2013. These are some of the proposed economic policy instruments that the Government will present in its energy and climate bill.
The Government is working for Sweden to have an energy supply that is sustainable and makes efficient use of resources, and to have zero net emissions of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere by 2050. Long-term predictability and regard for the difficult economic situation have been guiding concerns in the Government's climate bill, which will shortly be laid before the Riksdag.
- The climate challenges can serve as an economic lever and provide opportunities for new jobs and increased exports. This is the time for us to invest in sustainable energy and smart technical solutions that make it possible to meet increased demand from a position of strength when the economy picks up, says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
- Those who pollute must pay for their impact on the environment. The policy instruments must be economically efficient, technology-neutral and preferably internationally coordinated, avoiding too many rules for special cases. By putting a clear price tag on climate-affecting emissions, we make it clear that emissions have a cost that must be paid, says Minister for the Environment Andreas Carlgren.
- We're making the economic policy instruments in the energy and climate area tougher because this is the most effective way of achieving emission targets. However, the pace and timing of the tougher approach must reflect the sharp economic downturn. The changes must be implemented carefully and gradually so that households and companies have time to adapt. Attention must be given to the operating environment for jobs and enterprises, says Minister for Finance Anders Borg.
In previous budgets the Government has made extensive tax changes aimed at reducing emissions. When the Government soon presents its energy and climate bill, changes in various taxes and support will be presented aimed at reducing emissions of greenhouse gases by a further 2 million tonnes by 2020, in addition to the large reductions that current policy instruments are estimated to achieve. The approach should be that future tax increases for companies and households in the energy and environmental areas should be offset by corresponding tax relief. To stimulate and accelerate a transition to a more environment-friendly car fleet, the climate bill proposes that new green cars be exempted from vehicle tax for the first five years. The current green car premium will thus be replaced by long-term tax exemption. The amendment should enter into force on 1 January 2010, but be effective retroactively so as to apply to cars taken into service from 1 July 2009 onwards. The present definition of a green car will apply and passenger cars running on petrol and diesel that emit less than 120 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre in mixed driving will also be exempted from vehicle tax. One difference compared with the present green car premium is that the tax exemption will apply not only to cars bought by private people but also to company cars and other cars bought by businesses. Taxation of emissions by increasing the relative weight of carbon dioxide in vehicle tax. The carbon dioxide component of vehicle tax will be raised from SEK 15 to SEK 20, which means that from 2011 onwards the tax will be raised by SEK 5 for each gram of carbon dioxide a car emits. New light goods vehicles, light buses and camper vans will be brought into the carbon dioxide-based vehicle tax system. The fuel factor will be lowered for diesel cars and the environmental factor will be replaced by a fixed monetary amount. In total, this will mean a reduction in the vehicle tax on diesel cars. The energy tax on diesel will be raised in two stages by a total of SEK 0.40 per litre. A first increase of SEK 0.20 should be made on 1 January 2011 and a second increase of SEK 0.20 on 1 January 2013. To compensate heavy traffic for increased tax costs resulting from increases in diesel tax, the vehicle tax on heavy goods vehicles and large buses should also be reduced. The tax on incineration of household waste should be eliminated from 1 September 2010. This tax was introduced on 1 July 2006 but has turned out to have an insignificant effect on behaviour and has only led to unnecessary transportation of household waste. The change will be financed by raising the general carbon dioxide tax by SEK 0.01 per kg of carbon dioxide. A two-stage phase-out of the present reduction in carbon dioxide tax for energy intensive companies (the '0.8 per cent rule') is proposed. In addition, the Government wants more far-reaching coordination of economic policy instruments aimed at plants covered by the EU emission allowance trading system. The reduction in carbon dioxide tax for heating in agriculture, forestry and aquaculture and in industries not covered by the EU emission allowance trading system will be curtailed. The tax level will be raised from 21 per cent to 30 per cent in 2011 and to 60 per cent in 2015. In addition, a decrease is proposed in the level of carbon dioxide tax refunds granted for diesel used in agricultural and forestry machinery. Over and above the annual adjustment in line with the consumer price index, the level of carbon dioxide tax should in future be adapted to the extent and at the rate that, together with other changes in economic policy instruments, deliver a total reduction of greenhouse gas emissions of an additional 2 million tonnes by 2020.
Contact Markus Sjöqvist Press Secretary to Anders Borg +46 8 405 10 00 Mattias Johansson Press Secretary to Andreas Carlgren Lisa Wärn Pressekreterare hos Maud Olofsson
Press release 05 February 2009 Ministry for Foreign Affairs Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Sweden and Finland reject customs duties on mobile phones Six Swedish and Finnish ministers have sent a joint letter to the European Commission today strongly criticising plans to change the classification of mobile telephones in a way that in practice would mean a dramatic rise in customs duties on them.
The ministers warn that the new duties would result in more expensive phones for consumers and weakened competitiveness for an important high-tech and innovation-driven industry. They also highlight the risk that the decision will lead to trade conflicts with other members of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Download Read the letter from Swedish Minister for Trade Ewa Björling, Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson and Minister for and Finnish ministers to the Communications Åsa Torstensson have signed the letter along with Finland's Minister for Foreign Trade and European Commission (pdf Development Paavo Väyrynen, Minister of Economic Affairs Mauri Pekkarinen and Minister of 125 kB) Communications Suvi Lindén.
The letter was sent to Commissioners Catherine Ashton, László Kovács, Viviane Reding and Günter Verheugen.
Contact Jens Söderblom Political Adviser to Ewa Björling +46 8 405 27 44 +46 76 766 39 99 email to Jens Söderblom Lisa Wärn Pressekreterare hos Maud Olofsson Kenneth Hultgren Press Secretary to Åsa Torstensson 2008
Press release 29 August 2008 Ministry of Education and Research Major investment in Swedish research
In connection with this autumn's Budget Bill, the Alliance Government will present a new proposal for meeting the challenges facing Sweden. This will entail strengthening employment policy, enhancing Sweden's future growth potential and improving welfare. Download Complete text with diagrams Today, the party leaders in the Alliance for Sweden will present the main features of their upcoming research and table (pdf 110 kB) initiative.
Research is an indispensable part of human culture. The growth of knowledge and the search for explanations have a value in themselves. The resources available for research also have a major impact on Sweden's future potential. Good conditions for research open the way for innovations, contribute to growth and deepen our knowledge of the world around us. This emphasises the importance of initiatives that focus on high-quality research that is innovative and internationally competitive.
The Government's policy is oriented toward the future. The research initiative is part of a larger vision, which, in the long term, will strengthen Sweden as a successful industrial and service nation, but also as a welfare society.
The Government is to propose investments in research and innovation which will entail successive increases in central government support during the period 2009-2012, to reach a permanent increase of SEK 5 billion in 2012. Since the largest reinforcement will be allocated during the first year, total additional funds for the four- year period will amount to almost SEK 15 billion.
Work on the research and innovation bill is being led by Minister for Higher Education and Research Lars Leijonborg, who is available to answer further questions.
Investment for the future This is the largest, single extra investment ever to have been made in Swedish research. It is based on two central insights: In the era of globalisation, Swedish competitiveness must build on the high knowledge content of our export products, which is why research, development and innovation are key components of growth policy. Without new knowledge, the greatest challenges to mankind - such as the greenhouse gas effect, the energy crisis, water shortages, widespread poverty in parts of the world, the impact of current demographic changes, prolonged international conflicts and the risks of pandemics - cannot be dealt with successfully.
The largest additional investment ever to have been made in Swedish research Strengthening resources allocated to research is one of the largest reforms to be undertaken by the Government during its term of office. The extra funds for 2009 alone exceed all the additional resources provided for in the latest Social Democrat research bill. An idea of the size of the current investment can also be gained from the fact that it is larger than the sum of all funds allocated in all the research bills in the period 1994-2006.
To enable a comparison with previous terms of office, a diagram showing permanent increases in the resources allocated by research bills and their accompanying budget bills is shown below.
Diagram in the attached file: Level of permanent increases in the last four research bills (the last year of each period).
If, instead, a comparison is made of total resources allocated to Swedish research in each research policy bill and its accompanying budget bill, the picture becomes even clearer. One reason for this is that the Alliance Government's initiative means that resources will be considerably and permanently strengthened even during the first year of the period.
Diagram in the attached file: Total additional resources in research bills and accompanying budget bills, per period. Medicine, technology and climate are priority areas In terms of actual amounts, the largest increases will benefit research into medicine, technology and the climate.
The largest increase in resources will take the form of direct appropriations to universities and higher education institutions, but the Swedish Research Councils and the Swedish Agency for Innovation Systems will also benefit from significant increases in appropriations.
Table in the attached file: Permanent reinforcements in SEK million per year and area
The Government has used three guiding criteria in prioritising the strategic areas: Research that can help to find solutions to important global problems and challenges, such as work to combat climate change, the fight against serious diseases and other health problems, and the adaptation of energy systems. It is obvious, for example, that the fight against the greenhouse gas effect is aided by technological breakthroughs. Areas in which Sweden is already conducting world-class research. In all of the priority areas there are researchers and research groups of world class. Areas where companies in Sweden are already conducting their own research and development, and where state investments strengthen the development and competitiveness of the business sector and of Sweden as a country.
Examples of research projects that are to receive more support in this regard are the fight against major diseases that affect large sections of the population, such as Alzheimer's and cancer; new communications solutions in the intersection between mobile broadband and IT; and new energy solutions for reduced carbon dioxide emissions, greater energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.
Research in humanities and social sciences will also receive higher appropriations.
One explicit aim of the investments proposed in the bill is to create and strengthen research environments in Sweden that are of absolute world class.
Innovation is an important theme Innovation is an important theme in the upcoming bill. This is manifested partly in the design of a number of new structures and instruments for the Swedish research system, and partly in the fact that a number of specific innovation issues are dealt with that are of importance to the development of the business sector and society.
Further details of investments will be provided later, both in connection with the Budget Bill in September and when the research and innovation bill is presented in October.
More basic research stimulates R&D investments in the business sector Total R&D investment in Sweden - including the money spent by the business sector for this purpose - has, at about four per cent of GDP, long been extremely high by international standards.
Before the election, the Alliance pointed to the link between major research investments by companies such as Ericsson, AstraZeneca, Volvo, etc. and state investments. Companies' R&D is hugely dependant on well- financed basic research under state management. It is unrealistic to believe that these and other companies would continue to invest large amounts of money into research in Sweden if similar investments were not made in high-quality academic research.
With the proposal that has now been approved for Swedish research, Sweden's ability to compete for research investments will improve significantly. Add to this the Government's efforts to have the large research facility, ESS (European Spallation Source), located in Lund.
International comparison The programme presented here is also considerable by international standards. One would have to go as far as Asia - to China and Singapore, for example - to find greater approved increases in terms of percentages.
Despite the fact that many EU countries have expressed the ambition to reach the one-per-cent goal in accordance with the Lisbon strategy, few countries have actually made binding budget decisions to that effect. Contact Eva-Marie Byberg Press Secretary +46 8 405 38 77 +46 70 772 74 47 email to Eva-Marie Byberg
Press release 27 June 2008 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Government appoints coordinator for Swedish-Chinese environmental technology cooperation The Government has appointed former State Secretary Mats Denninger as special coordinator for Swedish cooperation with China in the area of energy and environmental technology, and sustainable urban planning.
Environmental and climate challenges in China are growing, above all as the economy rapidly develops. As part of Sweden's ambitions to tackle global environmental and climate change, and to deepen Swedish-Chinese cooperation in this area, a number of agreements concerning environmental and energy technology, and sustainable urban development were reached between Sweden and China during Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt's visit to China in April 2008.
These agreements cover key areas in which China has enormous and growing needs - these include energy efficiency, biofuels and other renewable energy sources, as well as sustainable urban planning. These are areas in which Swedish companies have world-leading expertise. Cooperation work is to include a concrete project with the aim of building an eco-city near the city of Tangshan.
Mr Denninger will be responsible for the implementation of the agreements. All government agencies concerned and other public actors, such as the Swedish Trade Council, will assist in this task.
Mr Denninger is 55 years old and comes from the town of Tystberga in Sörmland. He has extensive experience of advanced tasks both in Sweden and abroad. Mr Denninger's latest position was Director of Development at NIRAS Sweden, a company that works on environmental technology, alternative energy and development issues in Asia, eastern Europe, Africa and Latin America.
Contact Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt Mats Denninger +46 70 560 52 60
Press release 13 June 2008 Ministry for Foreign Affairs Vietnam's Permanent Deputy Prime Minister to visit Sweden
Vietnam's Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Sinh Hung will visit Sweden on 15-17 June.
The visit will include discussions with Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson, Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson and First Deputy Speaker of the Riksdag Jan Björkman.
Vietnam's Permanent Deputy Prime Minister will be accompanied by a large business delegation. On 17 June, the Swedish Trade Council, the Swedish Trade Federation and the Swedish-Vietnamese Business Council will arrange a 'business forum' at the World Trade Center for Swedish and Vietnamese companies.
Sweden's relations with Vietnam Sweden and Vietnam enjoy good and long-standing relations. As Vietnam has opened up to the world and moved towards a market economy, the mutual exchange in trade, culture and science has increased. In recent years, Vietnam has also become a popular tourist destination for many Swedes.
Contact Maria Gärtner Desk Officer +46 8 405 32 06
Press release 22 April 2008 Ministry for Foreign Affairs Secretary-General of the OECD visiting Sweden Secretary-General of the OECD, Angel Gurría, is visiting Sweden on 22-23 April at the invitation of Minister for Trade Ewa Björling.
Time and place External links Press conference with Secretary-General Angel Gurría and Minister for Trade Ewa Björling Delegation of Sweden to the Time: Wednesday 23 April, at 11.00 OECD in Paris Place: Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Gustav Adolfs Torg 1 Read more about Angel Gurría at OECD's website Dr Björling and Mr Gurría will hold talks about the role of the OECD in the international economic system and trade policy issues of the future, as well as trade and climate change.
During his visit to Stockholm, Mr Gurría will also meet Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson, Minister for Finance Anders Borg, Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt, Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson, Minister for Employment Sven Otto Littorin, Minister for Higher Education and Research Lars Leijonborg, Minister for the Environment Andreas Carlgren, Minister for Migration and Asylum Policy Tobias Billström and Minister for Local Government and Financial Markets Mats Odell.
On Tuesday Mr Gurría is giving a speech at the Stockholm School of Economics.
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The OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) has 30 member states. Its headquarters are in Paris.
Press release 14 April 2008 Ministry for Foreign Affairs Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Vice President of Colombia to visit Sweden Colombian Vice President Francisco Santos Calderón is visiting Sweden on 14-15 April.
The agenda for talks will include issues such as energy, climate change and trade, political developments in Colombia and the surrounding region, as well as human rights.
Vice President Santos will meet Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson and State Secretary for trade issues at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Gunnar Wieslander. During his visit, Vice President Santos will also meet Members of the Riksdag and representatives of the business sector.
Contact Elisabeth Eklund Counsellor Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Americas Department + 46 8 405 54 25 Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt
Press release 31 March 2008 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications 880 ambassadors for Women's Enterprise have been elected Inspired by the UK Women's Enterprise Task Force (WETF) the Swedish government started an initiative to elect ambassadors for Women's Enterprise.
Today, the minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson presented the names of 880 ambassadors for women's enterprise. They have been chosen to encourage women and girls across the country to start and run businesses. The aim is also to increase the knowledge of enterprising, to make women who run businesses more visible and enable for women and girls to see enterprising as an option.
Minister for Enterprise and Energy said: "I am impressed by the engagement among our women entrepreneurs, and that there are so many who want to contribute in the making of a more enterprising Sweden. We know that the presence of role models act as an inspiration for many considering starting a business, therefore I hope that the ambassadors will be an inspiration to many".
The ambassadors come from all parts of Sweden and represent a wide variety of branches. The ambassadors role is to inspire women by sharing their stories and experiences as entrepreneurs. Each ambassador is encouraged to at least four times a year speak in schools, universities, different networks a s o.
A total of 1600 persons have reported an interest in participating. The national coordinator Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth (Nutek) led the selection process. See the list of ambassadors on the governments webpage www.regeringen.se/naring
Today about a quarter of all companies in Sweden are run by women, and women accounted for 35 per cent of new business starters in 2006. Despite some progress the recent years women still are under represented in terms of participation in enterprise. The Government's aim is for women to account for at least 40 per cent of all new business starters by 2010.
The Swedish Government's policy to promote women's enterprise: It has to be easy, enjoyable and profitable to run a business in Sweden. This is why the Government wants Sweden to have a world class business climate.
Press release 14 March 2008 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Ministry of the Environment Joint initiative to present Swedish electric cars The Swedish car and power industries are now joining forces to launch the next generation of green cars. Today sees the presentation of the cooperation project to create hybrid vehicles that can be charged with electricity directly from the wall socket. The Government is investing SEK 240 million to partially finance research into environmentally friendly vehicles. The Swedish Energy Agency is providing SEK 20 million in support of this new cooperation project.
"We have decided to cooperate so as to speed up the development of the next generation of cars and engines. When companies, politicians and industry make a joint decision to move issues forward we can achieve better results. This can become a major and important technological advance, and one that is needed to tackle the threat of climate change," says Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson.
"Sweden can be a world leader when it comes to creating the solutions needed to adapt means of transport - solutions that are now in demand throughout the rest of the world. Green solutions from the Swedish car and power industries can benefit from export successes and at the same time make an important contribution to solving the world's climate and energy problems," says Minister for the Environment Andreas Carlgren.
The aim of the cooperation project presented today is to develop and demonstrate plug-in hybrids, the next generation of hybrid vehicles that can be charged directly from a wall socket. Elforsk - the research organisation of Sweden's electricity companies - has calculated that if 70 per cent of Swedish cars were to run on electricity, carbon dioxide emissions from private cars would decrease by 80 per cent.
This project is a collaboration between Saab Automobile, Volvo Car Corporation, Vattenfall AB and ETC AB. The project is being carried out with the support of the Swedish Energy Agency. A total of SEK 62 million is being invested in the project, and the Swedish Energy Agency is contributing SEK 20 million of this.
The project will see plug-in models from Saab and Volvo become operational - models that the manufacturers intend to make available on the market within a few years.
The reason given by the Swedish Energy Agency for its decision to support the project is that Sweden is particularly suitable for the development and demonstration of plug-in hybrids as a cold climate often makes great demands on batteries.
Contact Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt Tomas Uddin 2007
Press release 03 December 2007 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Clearer requirements for information about sustainability for state-owned companies The Government has adopted new guidelines for external reporting by state-owned companies with expanded requirements for information about sustainability. These replace the guidelines adopted in 2002 and cover information in addition to the provisions made in current legislation and by generally accepted accounting principles.
The boards of the state-owned companies are responsible for the companies' work with issues relating to sustainable development such as ethics, the environment, human rights, gender equality and diversity. The Government is now reinforcing its highly-pitched ambitions in this field by making clearer demands for Download reporting and accounting in these guidelines. Guidelines for external reporting by state-owned The state-owned companies shall present sustainability reports in accordance with the Global Reporting companies (pdf 122 kB) Initiative's (GRI) guidelines which, together with other financial reports such as the annual report, interim reports and the corporate guidance report, will make up an integrated basis for assessment and follow-up. The GRI guidelines are international standard guidelines for sustainability reports, which have been developed over more than ten years and which are applied by over 1,000 companies throughout the world.
- Both state-owned and private companies bear a responsibility for matters concerning social responsibility and sustainable development. We want to be able to follow up the work of the companies. For us, it is self- evident that the state-owned companies should set an example and be at the leading edge in these fields, and we know that accounting and reporting are tools to drive these issues forward, says the Minister for Enterprise and Energy, Maud Olofsson.
The external reporting of the state-owned companies, which includes the annual report, interim reports, the corporate government report, the statement on internal control and the sustainability report, shall be as transparent as in listed companies.
Contact Lena Holmestig Political Adviser Jenny Didong Division for State Enterprises +46 8 405 34 50 +46 70 295 02 44
Press release 31 October 2007 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Maud Olofsson meets with China's Vice Premier Wu Yi Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson has met China's Vice Premier Wu Yi during her visit to Beijing. Vice Premier Wu Yi showed great interest in Swedish know-how in the field of environmental technology and they both agreed on deepened cooperation between Sweden and China.
- Ms Wu Yi and I got on very well and I am positive towards deeper cooperation between Sweden and China in the field of environmental technology. It is important that Sweden can show that it is possible to combine higher GDP with reduced climate impact. As Minister for Enterprise and Energy, I regard it as self-evident that Sweden is to spread technological expertise in the field of environment. We must do this to be able to look our children and grandchildren in the eyes, says Ms Olofsson.
Ms Olofsson emphasised the importance of global cooperation in the field of environment where politics, the business sector and research must take the lead. Ms Wu Yi also stressed that Swedish companies had contributed to positive developments in China.
The two women leaders also had reason to speak about the importance of female role models in politics, the business sector and women's enterprise.
Contact Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt
Press release 30 October 2007 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications China and Sweden to cooperate on sustainable energy Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson and Chen Deming, Vice-Chairman and Minister of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) agreed today on deeper cooperation between China and Sweden on renewable energy.
The NDRC corresponds to the Swedish Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications and plays a key role with regard to climate and energy.
China and Sweden share the opinion that the development of sustainable energy systems and clean energy technologies is necessary to deal with climate change.
- I am very pleased that we have agreed on further steps in our cooperation on sustainable energy, clean energy technologies and energy efficiency initiatives. We have considerable expertise in Sweden that we are pleased to share with China. Cooperation will benefit both countries while also playing a role in global climate issues. It is important that Sweden can show that it is possible to combine higher GDP with reduced climate impact, says Ms Olofsson.
At the meeting with Chen Deming, Ms Olofsson also emphasised the importance of creating good conditions for companies - particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. Ms Olofsson also took up questions concerning corporate social responsibility, open markets and women's enterprise.
Contact Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt
Press release 03 October 2007 Ministry for Foreign Affairs Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Ministry of Education and Research Ministry of Employment Fifth Binational Commission Sweden - South Africa On Wednesday 3 October 2007, the fifth Binational Commission(BNC) will begin in Stockholm under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson. The South African delegation will be led by Deputy President Ms Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka.
Subjects to be discussed during the talks include peace and security in Africa, environment and climate issues, reforms and efficiency enhancement in the UN, HIV/AIDS, the crisis in Zimbabwe, the situation in Burma and other current African and international issues. Download Joint Declaration on the 5th Discussions will be held in three main areas: political, economic and pro-development issues. Various session of the Binational proposals for cooperation in third countries, joint projects and seminars will be discussed with a view to Commission between South further strengthening bilateral relations and promoting trade exchange between Sweden and South Africa. Africa and Sweden, 3 -4 The Deputy President will also be accompanied by a trade delegation. October 2007 (pdf 113 kB)
Programme The BNC meeting starts at Rosenbad on 3 October, at 11.30. In the afternoon, the Deputy President will meet Minister for Higher Education and Research Lars Leijonborg and Minister for Employment Sven Otto Littorin. In the evening, the Deputy Prime Minister will host a dinner at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
Thursday 4 October will start with a breakfast meeting at 08.00 at the Swedish Trade Council, followed by a seminar on investments. The fifth BNC meeting will conclude at Rosenbad at 16.30 on Thursday.
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The close political relations between Sweden and South Africa have resulted in the establishment of the Binational Commission. The Commission was set up at the initiative of the then Prime Minister Göran Persson and President Thabo Mbeki in connection with the major Sweden-South Africa event in 1999. The BNC is a framework involving policy instruments for broadening and deepening relations and provides a platform for regular dialogue and for identifying and implementing joint projects and programmes.
The first BNC meeting was held in Stockholm in October 2000, when Deputy President Mbeki led the South African delegation. The last time the BNC met was in Pretoria in November 2005, when Deputy Prime Minister Bosse Ringholm and Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka led their delegations.
Photo opportunity Wednesday 3 October at 11.30 Place: Rosenbad Rosenbad 4 Assembly at the entrance at 11.15 Please bring your press credentials
Press conference Tuesday 4 October at 16.30 Place: Ministry for Foreign Affairs Press Centre Fredsgatan 6 Assembly 16.15 Please bring your press credentials
Contact Lisa Wärn Pressekreterare hos Maud Olofsson Malin Werner Press Secretary, Political Adviser to Ewa Björling Mårten Wennberg Pressekreterare Eva-Marie Byberg Press Secretary +46 8 405 38 77 +46 70 772 74 47 email to Eva-Marie Byberg Jan Janonius
Press release 12 September 2007 Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Ministry of the Environment Ministry for Rural Affairs Climate billion to be presented in the budget The Government is strengthening Sweden's climate efforts. The upcoming Budget Bill will allocate a further SEK 1 billion for 2008 to 2010.
Minister for Enterprise and Energy Maud Olofsson, Minister for the Environment Andreas Carlgren and Minister for Agriculture Eskil Erlandsson presented the contents of the climate billion yesterday. SEK 245 million will be allocated in 2008, SEK 415 million in 2009 and SEK 340 million in 2010.
The climate billion will strengthen efforts that the Government considers necessary and correct in the short term, and supplements other action for the climate.
The climate billion will bring increased efforts in a range of areas.
Energy efficiency measures The investment in energy efficiency will include procurement and market introduction of energy-efficient technology, energy declaration requirements for buildings, climate advice for consumers and business operators, and development of climate labelling of products and services. SEK 120 million will be invested in these areas in 2008, SEK 130 million in 2009 and SEK 60 million in 2010.
Climate research The Government is increasing the appropriation provided to the Rossby Centre at the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute to prepare climate models and scenarios to support policy decisions. SEK 24 million will be invested in this area in the period until 2010.
Pilot and demonstration projects for second-generation biofuels Sweden has good potential to position itself as a leader in the work of developing second-generation biofuels. In all, a further SEK 150 million will be invested in this area over the three-year period.
Network for windfarming A national windfarming network will be created to promote more knowledge about wind power by strengthening existing initiatives and contributing to the establishment of new regional nodal points in the wind power area. SEK 20 million will be invested in this each year in 2008 and 2009.
Sustainable yield of bioenergy in agriculture and forestry Methods to achieve a sustainable yield of by-products from the forestry sector will be tested in pilot projects, in which the role of the forest as a carbon sink will also be studied. An action plan will be drawn up to increase bioenergy on forest and arable land. SEK 40 million will be invested in this in 2008 and 2009.
International climate investments Far-reaching climate measures in Sweden will be supplemented by international climate initiatives. These will contribute to sustainable development, transfer of environmental technology and stronger international climate cooperation. SEK 32 million will be invested each year, making a total of SEK 96 million.
Programme for sustainable cities and communities A sustainable cities programme will be developed. This investment will promote integrated solutions for water, energy and wastewater, conversion and new construction to produce buildings with minimal heating needs. It will also be part of introducing new technology that makes it possible to reduce the need of energy. These funds can be used to make it easier for companies and municipalities to substantially raise their environmental and climate performance by minimising resource and energy use. In all, SEK 340 million will be invested in 2009 and 2010. Contact Frank Nilsson Pressekreterare hos Anna-Karin Hatt Tomas Uddin Therese Nerlund +46 8 405 10 00
Press release 03 May 2007 Ministry for Foreign Affairs Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Communications Iran's Foreign Minister to visit Sweden
Foreign Minister of Iran Dr Manouchehr Mottaki will visit Sweden on 7 May for talks with Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson and Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt. His visit is part of a European tour that will include Norway.
In Stockholm Dr Mottaki will also meet the Speaker of the Riksdag and the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs. He will also be giving a lunchtime speech at the Stockholm School of Economics.
Contact Christian Carlsson Linda Ylivainio Political Adviser to Maud Olofsson + 46 8 405 48 21 Jonas Wendel Desk Officer Middle East and North Africa Department, Ministry for Foreign Affairs + 46 8 405 43 78