By Kay Scrimger
June 23, 2003

Stockholm Deputy Mayor Catharina Tarras-Wahlberg observed that, "Stockholm is clearly the growth engine of Sweden," a city where companies decide to establish their businesses, in large part because of the high educational level of the people of the city, as well as because of Stockholm's amenities and beauty. The deputy mayor represented Mayor Annika Billstrom, who was unable to attend the Denver meeting at the last minute because of a heated debate in the City Council regarding congestion changes.

Part of the majority Social Democrats in the Stockholm city government, the mayor and deputy mayor were elected in the fall, 2002, on a platform of economic growth, better welfare for citizens, and firm commitment to environmental responsibility.

Under the mayor and deputy mayor's leadership, Stockholm will continue to uphold and enhance basic services, increase the availability of housing, and solve the problems of traffic congestion and delays. Deputy Mayor Tarras-Wahlberg pointed out that the Stockholm city government is planning to invest $2 billion over the next four years in housing construction, with the goal of adding 20,000 new apartments, stimulating investments, and making environmental improvements.

"If we can meet these three challenges—housing, infrastructure, and the environment—businesses will choose to stay in Stockholm, and we will see more new companies establishing their operations here," Deputy Mayor Tarras-Wahlberg said.

Deputy Mayor Tarras-Wahlberg emphasized the strong commitment to sustainable development of Mayor Billstrom's administration, which rests on a commitment to distribute welfare to those most in need, provide citizens with fair and equal living conditions to the extent possible, improve the environment, continue to attract corporations to Stockholm, and continue to enhance the quality of life of the city.