New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS): Sweden Tuesday launched a healthcare platform in India with the aim of collaborating with the country's health sector in a strong, sustainable way.

The Swedish Life Science and Healthcare Platform in India is being supported by the embassy of Sweden in India, the consulate general of Sweden in Mumbai and has leading Swedish healthcare companies like Bactiguard, Hemocue and Molnlycke Health Care on board.

"Health is an important area where Sweden and India have growing interest and there is a mutual intention to strengthen bilateral ties and form strategic alliances," Ambassador of Sweden in India Harald Sandberg said.

He said Sweden has a well developed healthcare system, renowned for universal coverage, equity of access and high quality.

"India has its set of advantages. There is a lot to learn from India and I hope we will continue to exchange good practices, knowledge and technology," he added.

India and Sweden signed a memorandum of understanding in healthcare in 2009.

Sandberg said the platform launched Tuesday will further strengthen the MoU.

The platform aims to be a key interface between the various stakeholders in the Swedish and Indian healthcare system.

It will provide exceptional opportunities in the areas of research, policy, innovations and implementing best practices by both the countries.

Anna Liberg, trade commissioner of Sweden to India said: "Sweden's history and results of inclusive care fit very well with India's ambition of care for the many. Sweden can further contribute to India with its innovative, preventive and continuous improvement focused healthcare system."

The platform will be a forum to act as a catalyst in discussing issues and finding global solutions in the healthcare sector.

It is also a network of companies, consultants and organisations connecting healthcare providers, regulatory agencies, industry, research institutions and faculties of education to explore and make use of synergies.