Press release
11 February 2010
Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Economic growth new area in aid and development policy
"Through this new policy, the Government clarifies its view regarding the importance of economic growth as a means of promoting development and reducing poverty. For the first time, a holistic approach is being taken regarding the importance of economic growth, and applies to both Swedish bilateral and multilateral development cooperation," says Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson.
It is quite clear that economic growth is absolutely crucial to poverty reduction. There are no examples of countries that have successfully combated poverty without sustained economic growth.
The Government considers that Sweden can contribute to economic growth in poor countries through efforts in the overall development policy. The economic growth policy will focus on development cooperation in areas that can have a particularly large impact on reducing poverty by enabling poor people to take part in, contribute to and benefit from economic growth. The policy's overall goal for economic growth in the context of development cooperation is improved conditions for sustainable growth processes in poor developing countries.
The main focus of the measures and areas will be on low-income countries, which is the primary target group of Swedish development cooperation.
As another part of the new policy, Ms Carlsson will present the Business and Development Council tomorrow, Friday 12 February. The Council is to advise the Government on how to make best use of the Swedish business sector's experience, expertise and resources, and contribute to the implementation of Sweden's policy for global development.
Contact
Peter Larsson+46 8 405 10 00
