PM urges peace in Ukraine, West Asia
PM Modi and his Norwegian counterpart, Jonas Gahr Store, hold wide-ranging talks
India and Norway have firmed up a Green Strategic Partnership, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Store held wide-ranging talks where they called for resolving the tensions in Ukraine and West Asia through dialogue and diplomacy.
The two leaders held talks on Monday focusing on expanding cooperation in areas such as clean energy, climate resilience, blue economy, green shipping, digital technology, space and Arctic research.
"India and Norway both believe in a rules-based order, dialogue, and diplomacy. We are in agreement that no issue can be resolved through military conflict," Modi said in his televised media statement after the talks.
"Whether it is Ukraine or West Asia, we support and will continue to support, every effort toward an early end to the conflicts and the restoration of peace," he said.
PM Narendra Modi on Monday described India’s relationship with Norway and Europe as entering a “golden age,” as Norway announced a landmark investment framework worth $100 billion aimed at expanding cooperation across India’s business, technology, infrastructure, and green energy sectors.
The two leaders emphasised stronger economic collaboration and strategic cooperation amid growing global uncertainty.
During the visit, PM Modi was conferred the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, Norway’s highest civilian honour. The recognition marks the 32nd international award received by Modi during his tenure as the PM.
Expressing gratitude, PM Modi said the award was dedicated to the people of India and symbolised the enduring friendship between the two nations.
“Honoured to receive the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit. This honour is dedicated to the people of India and is a tribute to the enduring friendship between India and Norway. It reflects our shared commitment to global progress,” PM posted on X.
Addressing a joint press briefing in Oslo, PM Modi highlighted the significance of the recently implemented Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which includes Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
He said the agreement would serve as a blueprint for shared growth and prosperity between India and Norway. “This agreement sets a target of attracting investments totalling 100 billion dollars into India and creating one million jobs over the next fifteen years,” the PM said.
The investment framework is expected to focus on renewable energy, digital innovation, maritime industries, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable infrastructure.
PM Modi also recalled postponing his earlier Norway visit following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam last year. He thanked Norway for standing firmly with India during that period.
“During that difficult period, Norway demonstrated the true spirit of friendship by standing firmly alongside India in the fight against terrorism,” he said.
The PM further stressed that the world is currently facing instability and uncertainty, underlining the importance of diplomacy and peaceful dialogue in resolving geopolitical conflicts.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the visit reflected the growing partnership between the two democracies and highlighted the importance of cooperation in an increasingly polarised global environment.
“Partnerships matter, especially between democracies that share common interests and abide by common rules in the global community,” Støre said.
He added that both countries would sign several agreements aimed at deepening collaboration in trade, technology, energy transition, and innovation.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding India-Europe relations, with both sides describing the evolving partnership as a key pillar for future economic growth and geopolitical stability.
