On May 19, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store formally upgraded bilateral ties by establishing a Green Strategic Partnership, placing a stronger emphasis on sustainable growth, technology collaboration, and economic engagement.
During talks in Oslo, both leaders reviewed the entire scope of India-Norway relations, covering areas such as trade, investment, climate action, energy transition, the blue economy, higher education, Arctic research, space cooperation, and talent mobility. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, they acknowledged significant opportunities to deepen economic and commercial links and reiterated a shared goal of doubling bilateral trade by 2030.
A major focus of the discussions was expanding technology-led cooperation. Both sides agreed to promote collaboration in artificial intelligence, robotics, cyber security, digitalization and critical digital infrastructure. The leaders also directed officials to enhance cooperation in emerging sectors, including marine ecosystem protection, shipbuilding, green shipping, and infrastructure development.
Prime Minister Modi welcomed increased investments by Norwegian companies into India and highlighted the potential for stronger business partnerships to support a collective USD 100 billion investment commitment and the creation of one million jobs under the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.
In emphasizing innovation, Modi invited Norway to participate in Bharat Innovates 2026 in France and proposed the establishment of a bilateral Start-up Innovation Hub and a Green Innovation Hackathon. These initiatives are aimed at strengthening innovation-driven partnerships between Indian and Norwegian tech ecosystems.
On climate and clean technology, the leaders agreed to bolster cooperation in advanced solutions including carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), offshore wind, and renewable energy investments. They also committed to intensifying joint research in renewable energy, climate science, health technology, critical minerals, and digital technologies.
Higher education and talent exchange received significant attention, with both countries agreeing to explore joint degree programmers, mutual recognition of qualifications, and expanded mobility for students and faculty, particularly in science and technology disciplines.
The discussions also covered regional and global developments. Norway reiterated its support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council. Both leaders condemned terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, and called for coordinated international action against the threat.
In order to advance digital cooperation, the two governments agreed to establish a Joint Working Group on Digitalization to further the digital transition and explore joint work on digital public goods.
The visit began with PM Store personally receiving Prime Minister Modi at Oslo Airport, underscoring the growing warmth and strategic depth of India-Norway ties.
