Sweden

Relations between the United States and Sweden are built on a shared heritage that dates back to 1638 when the first Swedish immigrants arrived on the shores of Delaware. Sweden was one of the first countries to recognize U.S. independence in 1783 and the two countries have maintained a strong bilateral friendship since then, based on shared values and mutual interests. Sweden is an Enhanced Opportunities Partner (EOP) of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and plays an active leadership role on the international stage, from its long-term investments in Afghanistan to its role as a global peacemaker. Sweden is also a member of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, participates in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), and serves as the United States’ protecting power in North Korea. Sweden’s commitment to promoting global democracy, human rights, gender equality, and international development and sustainability makes it a respected moral leader in international affairs. As one of the largest donors of humanitarian assistance, Sweden gives approximately one percent of its Gross National Product annually and is one of USAID’s most important bilateral partners. In this vein, Sweden has advanced as a global leader in prioritizing gender equality in its development assistance. Sweden remains a vocal supporter of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and partners with the United States to promote stability in the Baltic Sea region and sustain transatlantic security.