STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1619

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: S.R. No. 175

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts, to which was referred S.R. No. 175 entitled:

"SENATE RESOLUTION SUPPORTING AND ENCOURAGING A BROADER RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE STATE AND THE KINGDOM OF SWEDEN,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to support and encourage a broader relationship between the State and Kingdom of Sweden.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Consulate of Sweden and one individual.

Your Committee received testimony in opposition to this measure from one individual.

Your Committee finds that the State and the Kingdom of Sweden share common challenges as geographically distinct regions with unique environmental, economic, and social concerns. Your Committee further finds that the State could draw lessons from the advancements Sweden has made in energy efficiency, smart grid technology, sustainable urban planning, and its robust public transportation system that integrates rail, bus, and cycling infrastructure. Your Committee also finds that fostering a broader relationship between the State and Sweden would strengthen diplomatic ties, encourage economic partnerships, and facilitate knowledge exchange in key areas. This measure encourages a stronger relationship between the State and the Kingdom of Sweden to create more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous societies for both states.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of S.R. No. 175 and recommends its adoption.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts,

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CHRIS LEE, Chair