By Marc Eric Cosep
PIO Digital Media Specialist
Cebu City (October 18, 2022) — The Embassy of Sweden in the Philippines has proposed a partnership with the City Government to strengthen trade activities and renewable energy generation.
In a courtesy call to Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin N. Garcia this morning, Sweden Ambassador Dr. Annika Thunborg said that she has seen the fast growth of the City’s economy despite desruptions caused by the global pandemic.
“Despite the pandemic, trade in Cebu has been steadily growing as the economy has opened up,” expressed Thunborg.
Because of this aspect, Thunborg wishes to use this as a leverage to promote more trade activities with Cebu City.
She noted that famous Swedish companies like clothing brand H&M and furniture brand Ikea, are gradually building its influence in the country’s market as Filipino consumers recognize the value they get from their products.
“Swedish companies have already expressed their interest here in the island because the consumers see value and we want to use this as a leverage for trading,” said Thunborg.
Despite the pandemic, trade in Cebu has been steadily growing as the economy has opened up.
Dr. Annika Thunborg, Sweden Ambassador
“Yes, we will look into this because trade is something that the island is also known for,” said Garcia.
On the topic of waste segregation and clean energy, Thunborg said that there are over 40 waste-to-energy companies in Sweden which supplies 50 percent of the country’s energy.
The country completely eliminated the use of landfills and its onshore and offshore wind energy farms have also become a source for clean energy.
“I’m really impressed and I hope we can collaborate more on this because we have recently just signed an agreement for a waste-to-energy facility here in the city as well and learn on how we can take things further,” added Garcia.
Last September 25, the City Government signed a Joint Venture Agreement with private entity New Sky Energy, Inc. for a waste-to-energy facility in the City by 2025.
I’m really impressed and I hope we can collaborate more on this because we have recently just signed an agreement for a waste-to-energy facility here in the city as well and learn on how we can take things further.
Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin N. Garcia
“I look forward to this and for better partnerships with you as well,” said Garcia.
The ambassador’s visit to the city is part of their campaign to strengthen ties and promote trade activities with partners cities.
Thunborg will also be heading back to manila tomorrow to discuss other developments with the city and will return to Sweden on Sunday.#
Cebu City • News & Information 