Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store recently held discussions to enhance the broad scope of India-Norway relations. They focused on areas such as trade, investments, climate action, energy transition, blue economy, ocean governance, research, higher education, Arctic cooperation, space, and talent mobility. Both leaders emphasized the importance of sustainability and green growth, leading to an agreement to upgrade their relationship to a Green Strategic Partnership.
The leaders expressed optimism about expanding economic and commercial collaboration, with a particular emphasis on increasing investments by Norwegian companies in India. They set a target to double the current trade value between the two countries by 2030, aiming for USD 100 billion in investments under the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) and the creation of one million jobs in India. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement outlining these goals.
In addition, Modi and Store instructed their teams to enhance cooperation in various sectors under the blue economy, including marine protection, shipbuilding, green shipping, infrastructure, space, AI, cybersecurity, and more. They also highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability and renewable energy, calling for increased collaboration in niche technologies such as carbon capture, offshore wind, and clean energy projects in India.
Furthermore, the leaders discussed strengthening polar research and logistics in the Arctic, focusing on environmentally responsible practices. They emphasized joint efforts in research and innovation across various fields like renewable energy, oceans, climate, health, critical minerals, emerging technologies, and IT. The two countries also explored opportunities for joint degree programs, mutual recognition of qualifications, and student and faculty mobility in higher education.
