A senior official from India’s Ministry of External Affairs held discussions with Norway’s trade ministry leadership in Oslo on Monday, focusing on expanding economic collaboration and encouraging investment in environmentally sustainable and ocean-based industries.
Sibi George, Secretary (West) at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, met with Ragnhild Sjoner Syrstad, State Secretary at Norway’s Ministry of Trade and Industry. According to India’s MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the two sides explored ways to deepen economic engagement following the implementation of the India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (India-EFTA-TEPA), while also identifying opportunities in green and blue technology sectors.
The talks come shortly after the conclusion of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement, which was jointly announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the 16th India-EU Summit in New Delhi on January 27. The agreement significantly reduces or eliminates tariffs on more than 90% of EU goods entering India, including major cuts on machinery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, beer, aircraft, and spacecraft components.
Earlier in the day, George engaged with members of the Indian community in Norway, where he spoke about India’s growing global influence, its leadership within the Global South, and the strategic importance of recent trade agreements with both the EU and EFTA nations. He described the Indian diaspora as a crucial link between the two countries, strengthening people-to-people and economic ties.
The event featured cultural performances, including a classical dance presentation, and concluded with the singing of the Indian national anthem, highlighting the strong sense of community among Indians living in Norway.
George arrived in Oslo on Sunday to participate in the 12th round of Foreign Office Consultations with Torgier Larsen, Secretary General of Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Upon his arrival, India’s Ambassador to Norway, Gloria Gangte, formally welcomed him, noting that the visit aims to enhance cooperation across key sectors and reinforce bilateral relations.
India and Norway established diplomatic ties in February 1947 and have since maintained a friendly partnership rooted in shared values such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
