Following the Philippines’ recent appointment of a non-resident defense attaché to Stockholm, Sweden has named Lieutenant Colonel Anders Nikanorsson as its new non-resident defense attaché to the Philippines, marking a significant step forward in bilateral defense cooperation.
Based in Bangkok, LtCol Nikanorsson will serve as a key liaison for advancing Sweden’s strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific.
“I am deeply honored and genuinely excited to take on this assignment,” says LtCol Nikanorsson in a press release from the Embassy of Sweden in Manila.
“The Philippines holds a pivotal position in the Indo-Pacific, both geographically and strategically. As a maritime nation committed to international law and regional stability, it is a natural partner for Sweden in promoting a rules-based global order and enhancing security cooperation,” LtCol Nikanorsson says.
H.E. Anna Ferry, Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines is pleased to have an experienced Military Attache on her team.
“We are excited to welcome LtCol Nikanorsson to our team. His extensive experience as a senior defense officer significantly strengthens our capacity to engage on critical security and defense issues. His presence ensures a direct and informed dialogue with our counterparts in the Philippines—an important and valued partner,” Ambassador Ferry says.
“This addition deepens our understanding of regional dynamics from both military and strategic perspectives.”
As part of its broader defense strategy, Sweden is intensifying its engagement in the Indo-Pacific, recognizing the region’s growing importance for global security and stability.
On 31 May 2025, Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. met with Swedish Minister for Defense Dr. Pål Jonson during the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. At the meeting, Minister Jonson reaffirmed Sweden’s support for international law and its intention to strengthen ties in the region.
“The security landscape is increasingly contested. To navigate this, Europe and the Indo-Pacific need to understand, commit to, and enhance each other’s security. Sweden comes here to listen and engage,” Minister Jonson stated at the conference.
“Stronger security begins with stronger partnerships. Through exercises, joint innovation, and industrial cooperation, we build trust, resilience, and deterrence. These connections make us all safer and make conflict less likely,” he added.
In addition to the bilateral meeting, Minister Jonson participated in roundtables and informal consultations with several counterparts, reaffirming Sweden’s commitment to global defense dialogue.
Sweden is currently undertaking its most extensive defense investment since the Cold War. Under its Defense Resolution 2025–2030, the country is reinforcing both civil and military defense systems. Military defense is set to receive more than SEK 170 billion (approx. PHP 980 billion) annually, while civil defense will be allocated over SEK 37.5 billion (approx. PHP 220 billion). By 2028, military spending will reach 2.6 percent of GDP.
Sweden’s revitalized conscription system now trains over 10,000 conscripts annually and is expected to grow to a force of 130,000 personnel—including reserves—by 2035.
Sweden and the Philippines have maintained diplomatic relations since 1947. The Embassy’s primary mission is to represent Sweden and strengthen bilateral relations, with a focus on trade, investment, and strategic partnerships, including security cooperation.
