Mukherjee to begin five-day visit of Sweden and Belarus from Sunday

President Pranab Mukherjee will begin a five-day state visit to Sweden and Belarus from Sunday.

During the first leg of his visit, Mukherjee will arrive in Sweden, where, he will meet with King Carl Gustaf, Prime Minister Stefan Lofven and the Speaker of the Swedish Parliament.

This is the first visit by an Indian President to Sweden.

The aim of the visit is to strengthen political, economic and cultural ties between the two nations.

The focus during the visit is expected to be on innovations and sustainable development with urban development, science and research and life sciences as the main themes.

Both countries are expected to sign agreements on urban development, academics, health and in the field of micro, small and medium enterprises.

It is also expected that President Mukherjee will hold talks on issues related to the NDA Government's Make In India programme, as both India and Sweden believe that there exists hug potential for such capabilities.

Sweden is currently India's third largest trade partner.

The visit to Belarus from June 2 to June 4 will see the president being accompanied by a high level delegation of parliamentarians and representatives from the business and education sectors.