Oslo, May 18: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a visit to Norway, where he received a warm welcome from the Indian community. During his trip, he met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and participated in a bilateral meeting. Following their discussions, both leaders addressed the media.
PM Modi expressed his joy at visiting Norway, stating, “This country exemplifies harmony between nature and human development. I sincerely thank you for this heartfelt welcome.” He also extended greetings to the Norwegian people on the occasion of their Constitution Day, emphasizing the strong friendship between India and Norway, especially during challenging times, such as last year’s terrorist attack in Pahalgam that led to the postponement of his visit.
He noted, “Today, the world is experiencing uncertainty and instability. Conflicts persist in various regions, including Ukraine and the Middle East. In this context, India and Europe are entering a new golden era of relations. Last year, India and the European Free Trade Association implemented a historic trade and economic partnership. This agreement aims for a $100 billion investment in India and the creation of one million jobs over the next 15 years. We have made significant decisions to turn this agreement into results, establishing a Green Strategic Partnership between India and Norway.”
The Prime Minister highlighted that this partnership will integrate India’s scale, speed, and talent with Norway’s technology and capital across various sectors, from clean energy to climate resilience, blue economy, and green shipping. Research, education, and innovation are also key pillars of this relationship. Today, both nations agreed to enhance research collaboration in sustainability, ocean energy, geology, and health. They aim to make their partnership future-ready by connecting universities and startup ecosystems in engineering, AI, cyber, and digital fields, along with expanding cooperation in skill development and mobility.
PM Modi acknowledged Norway’s significance in the Arctic region and expressed gratitude for its support in operating India’s Arctic research station, Himadri. The memorandum of understanding between ISRO and the Norwegian Space Agency will further enhance their space collaboration. This deep cooperation will enable scientists from both countries to better understand climate change, protect ecosystems, and secure the future of humanity. The India-Norway Green Strategic Partnership is poised to benefit the entire world, with Norway joining the Indo-Pacific maritime initiative. Together, they will strengthen collaboration in marine economy, maritime security, and capacity building.
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