Local govt, 'can do attitude' helping brand B'luru: Swedish envoy

The business-friendly attitude of the Karnataka government and the work attitude of Bengaluru are major attractions for investors in the city, according to Sweden's ambassador to India.

In an exclusive interview with DH, Klas Molin, Ambassador of Sweden to India said, "Credit goes to the state government for its policies. I know that the general life style -- the climate, the schools, are very agreeable in Bengaluru."

He also appreciated the business attitude of the IT capital of India.

"The business attitude also matters a lot. The 'Can Do” attitude is emblematic of this region. There is critical mass of Swedish companies, many have been here for many years. That is of course important too. It's been proven as a good place to do business," he said.

There are about 70 Swedish companies in the city, including Volvo Buses.

The state has seen a huge inflow of investment proposals over the past three years. The state saw proposals in excess of Rs 1.5 lakh crore for two consecutive years in 2016 and 2018. This year again, the state has topped the country with investment proposals worth Rs 74,776 crore till March.

In the period April 2000-March 2017, Karnataka attracted FDI worth $22.37 billion. While in FY2017 alone, the state attracted FDI of $5.2 billion.

Molin also that said he met representatives of the Bengaluru International Airport (BIAL) management team on Wednesday to discuss cooperation opportunities regarding the new terminal.

The country's third largest airport - Kempegowda International Airport - is set to raise about $2 billion for building a new terminal and runway, which are expected to become operational within three years.