Strengthening Collaboration: Honorary Consuls and Team Sweden meet in Canberra

Photos: Embassy of Sweden in Canberra | Sweden’s Honorary Consul in Cairns Sally Mlikota and Ambassador Klas Molin

Last week, Sweden’s Honorary Consuls from across Australia and New Zealand gathered in Canberra for a regional conference focused on reconnecting, sharing insights, and deepening cooperation across both countries.

The programme covered several key areas of joint work, including crisis preparedness, Sweden promotion, and early planning for the upcoming Swedish elections taking place in the second half of this year. With voting stations expected in multiple cities throughout Australia and New Zealand, the Embassy looks forward to working closely with the Honorary Consuls to ensure smooth, accessible arrangements for Swedish citizens abroad. More information will follow in the months ahead.

A special moment during the conference was Ambassador Klas Molin’s presentation of the Royal Order of the Polar Star, on behalf of His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf, to Sally Mlikota, Honorary Consul in Cairns, in recognition of her exceptional service to Sweden.

Honorary Consuls play a vital role in Sweden’s international presence. They support trade, promote Swedish culture, and assist Swedish citizens across the region, often serving as the first point of contact for local partners and communities.

The conference also offered Business Sweden and the Swedish Australian Chamber of Commerce (SACC) an opportunity to outline their priorities for 2026 and strengthen collaboration with the Honorary Consuls, who are a key part of the broader Team Sweden constellation.

The Embassy extends its sincere thanks to all Honorary Consuls for their dedication, professionalism, and important work representing Sweden across Australia and New Zealand.