Sweden-Philippines celebrates 70-year tie
EIGHT months after re-opening in Manila last November, the Embassy of Sweden in Manila spearheaded by Ambassador Harald Fries hosted the 2017 Swedish National Day celebration at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La at the Fort. The momentous celebration also marked the 70th year anniversary of the Sweden-Philippines relationship, with Swedish Innovation in the Philippines as its theme.
Taking the opportunity to introduce a modern, creative and innovative image of Sweden to the Filipinos, the embassy presented a special VR (Virtual Reality) performance featuring Stockholm’s most beautiful tourist spots. Innovative Swedish companies were also present to exhibit their products at the event.
“Swedish companies have world class know-how and technology for sustainable and smart solutions in sectors such as infrastructure, energy and transportation,” said Ambas- sador Fries in his special remarks.
A main priority of the new embassy is to enhance people-topeople relationships between the two countries and to introduce Sweden to the Philippines as a modern and innovative country that places great importance to environmental sustainability, democracy, good governance, respect for human rights and the rule of law—all vital characteristics of sustainable development.
In ending his message, Ambassadoe Fries notes that “the 70 years of excellent diplomatic relationship we have shared is only the beginning. I look forward to doing my very best—together with the rest of the embassy staff—to further strengthen the ties that bind our two countries.”
Over 400 guests from the government, diplomatic corps, civil society and business sector enjoyed an evening of food, drinks and dancing to the hits of Swedish powerhouse ABBA.