Sweden

Capital: Stockholm
Area: 450,295 sq km
Comparative area: slightly larger than California
Population (July 2011 estimate): 9,088,728
Official language: Swedish
International Organizations and Agreements: European Union, United Nations, World Trade Organization (WTO), NATO’s Partnership for Peace, Nordic Council of Ministers

Friendship and cooperation between the United States and Sweden is strong and close. The United States welcomes Sweden's membership in NATO's PFP and the countries' ongoing cooperation in promoting global democracy and freedom.

Sweden provides troops and support to NATO-led peacekeeping forces in the Balkans and Kosovo, International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, leadership of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Mazar-e-Sharif, the EU anti-piracy mission ATALANTA off the coast of Somalia, and flew missions to enforce the no-fly zone in Operation Unified Protector in Libya.

The U.S. has no permanent bases nor units in Sweden, but partners with the country in using three strategic facilities there as well as through an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement. Additionally, the Swedish military has participated in exercises Jackal Stone, Bold Avenger, Unified Engagement, Cold Response and others.

The U.S. Embassy in Sweden hosts a Web site, www.sagastory.blogspot.com, to foster partnerships by enabling people to share stories about what is happening with environmental sustainability in Sweden and United States.