In a significant development, Sweden’s President will host Icelandic President Halla Tómasdóttir on a state visit from 6–8 May 2025. The three-day visit marks an important milestone in the excellent bilateral relations between the two Nordic countries.
For over 1,000 years, Sweden and Iceland have been closely linked as friends, neighbours, and partners. Today, their strong historical ties are complemented by a renewed sense of cooperation and solidarity through their membership in NATO. The Swedish Government sees the state visit as an opportunity to strengthen their collective defence capabilities and crisis preparedness with their Icelandic counterparts.
During her visit, President Tómasdóttir will be accompanied by her husband, Björn Skúlason, and representatives from the Icelandic Government and business sector. The Swedish Government will be represented by several ministers. The state visit aims to develop cooperation between Sweden and Iceland in areas such as green transition, life sciences, and health and medical care.
The two countries have a long tradition of collaboration in innovation and research, with a strong focus on competitiveness. This partnership is expected to enhance their resilience in the face of future challenges. The state visit will also provide opportunities for cultural exchange, with a focus on literature, music, film, and design.
Sweden’s accession to NATO has further strengthened their bilateral relations and sense of Nordic community. The Swedish Government looks forward to developing cooperation with Iceland on defence capabilities and crisis preparedness, as well as exploring new areas of collaboration in the fields of innovation, research, and cultural exchange.
A more detailed programme and participant list will be announced closer to the visit date. In preparation for the state visit, media representatives require special accreditation from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, with an application deadline of 25 April 2025.
The state visit represents a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral relations between Sweden and Iceland. As two of the most important players in the Nordic region, their cooperation is expected to have far-reaching implications for regional security and stability.
- Published on: 19 March 2025
- Location: Stockholm, Sweden (exact location to be confirmed)
In conclusion, the state visit from Icelandic President Halla Tómasdóttir marks an important milestone in the already strong bilateral relations between Sweden and Iceland. As two like-minded nations, their cooperation is expected to have a lasting impact on regional security and stability.