Oslo, May 19: Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the third India-Nordic Summit in Oslo. The summit focused on sustainability, innovation, clean energy, new technologies, and strengthening cooperation for a peaceful and prosperous future. Following the summit, PM Modi addressed a joint press conference with leaders from Nordic countries.
During his address, PM Modi emphasized that shared commitments to democracy, the rule of law, and multilateralism make India and Norway natural partners. Both nations exchanged views on issues concerning West Asia and global tensions.
“I am delighted to participate in the India-Nordic Summit today. I thank the President for organizing this summit and extend my welcome to all Nordic leaders. Our shared commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and multilateralism makes us natural partners. Eight years ago, we established this format to energize our relations with Nordic countries,” PM Modi stated.
He expressed satisfaction over the significant progress made in bilateral relations in recent years. “Our bilateral trade has quadrupled in the last decade. Nordic investment funds are becoming crucial partners in India’s rapid growth. In the past decade, investments from Nordic countries in India have increased by nearly 200%. This growing trade and investment have positively impacted both India’s growth story and the economies of Nordic nations, creating thousands of new jobs. We have recently initiated important measures to elevate our relations to the next level,” he added.
PM Modi announced that starting October 2025, India will implement a trade and economic partnership with Norway, Iceland, and other EFTA countries. “Just a few months ago, we finalized the India-EU FTA, which includes Denmark, Finland, and Sweden. These trade agreements will usher in a new golden era in India-Nordic relations. We have decided to shape our partnership with Norway around green technology and innovation,” he noted.
The Prime Minister highlighted that this green technology partnership will combine Iceland’s zero thermal emissions, Norway’s blue economy, and the sustainability expertise of all Nordic nations with India’s scale to ensure a better future for the world. “Through this unique strategic partnership, we will integrate Sweden’s advanced manufacturing and defense, Finland’s telecom and digital technology, and Denmark’s cybersecurity and health tech with India’s talent to develop reliable solutions for the world. India is a vital pillar of the Nordic partnership, with our extensive research and innovation efforts. To strengthen this, we will enhance linkages among universities, startups, and labs. We will deepen our collaboration in Arctic and polar research and ensure new opportunities in skill development and mobility between India and Nordic countries,” he explained.
PM Modi also shared thoughts on global issues. “In times of global tension and conflict, India and Nordic countries will continue to support a rules-based global order. Whether it’s Ukraine or West Asia, we will support efforts for the swift resolution of conflicts and peace. We agree that reforming multilateral institutions is necessary and urgent,” he concluded.
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