China and Sweden signed five bilateral trade deals on Tuesday during a visit by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to Sweden, the AFP reported. The deals included contracts with Geely-owned Swedish auto brand Volvo (VOL3.FRA) and telecom company Ericsson (ERIC.NASDAQ), as well as deals in the environmental technology, railway and road safety sectors. Ballbearing manufacturer SKF (SKF.OMX) and engineering and mining equipment maker Sandvik (SAND.OMX) also signed agreements. Volvo simultaneously announced a preliminary deal with China Development Bank for financing of Volvo’s research and development programs in efficient energy technology and production facilities in China. The deal will help fund the Swedish automaker’s US$11 billion planned investment by 2015. Wen also announced plans to enhance cooperation with Sweden in the area of sustainable development through a US$1.3 billion loan to Swedish and Chinese businesses.
Categories