SWEDISH AMBASSADOR to the Philippines Harald Fries said he is on a mission to link Swedish businesses with areas outside the National Capital Region as well as strengthen tourism and academic relations between the two countries. “One important mission is to learn how Swedish business can connect with the Philippine businesses outside Metro Manila. I like to go to other places and talk to local politicians, business people, civil society organizations to see how it can connect Sweden and the local province,” Mr. Fries said in an interview at the Iloilo City hall last Friday. “We will see how we can build to strengthen the relationship in terms of business, tourism, and academic student exchange,” he added. Mr. Fries also noted the efforts of the local government in terms of ease of doing business. “There are many opportunities. The local politicians here are working hard on doing business earlier by making fewer steps in terms of transactions, tax incentives, and infrastructures. It’s very important for business,” he said. The ambassador said he first visited Iloilo 28 years ago and noted the urban growth. “I was here 28 years ago and it was a huge change compared to late 80s… The new airport and driving in from the airport, its completely a new modern city compared to before,” he said. — Emme Rose S. Santiagudo

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