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NEW DELHI: Ministry of External Affairs shared the outcome of the 3rd India-Nordic Summit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation in the summit resulted in eight key outcomes aimed at deepening India’s strategic, economic and technological engagement with Nordic countries, with a strong focus on green growth, innovation, defence and climate cooperation.The summit, attended by leaders from the Nordic region, sought to expand collaboration across sectors ranging from clean energy and Arctic research to talent mobility and maritime security.
India-Nordic ties upgraded to strategic green partnership
India and the Nordic countries elevated their relationship to a Green Technology and Innovation Strategic Partnership, signalling a shift towards long-term collaboration in future-focused sectors.The partnership is expected to deepen cooperation in the blue economy, circular economy and digital infrastructure, while also expanding joint work on climate action, energy security, water management and education.
Trade push linked to India-EU and EFTA agreements
The summit placed strong emphasis on strengthening economic integration through the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.Leaders said deeper trade and investment linkages could improve supply chain resilience, accelerate sustainable growth and create new business opportunities. EFTA nations are expected to invest USD 100 billion in India, potentially boosting manufacturing, innovation and employment.
Nordic innovation to power India’s climate goals
Climate cooperation emerged as a core pillar of the summit, with both sides agreeing to convert Nordic clean-tech innovation into scalable climate solutions for India.The partnership aims to support renewable energy expansion, low-emission technologies and sustainable lifestyle initiatives under India-led Mission LIFE, helping India balance economic growth with environmental commitments.
Arctic cooperation expands India’s polar footprint
India and the Nordic countries agreed to step up cooperation in the Arctic, reflecting New Delhi’s growing interest in polar research and climate science.Joint initiatives in environmental studies, climate monitoring and polar research are expected to improve scientific collaboration and help India better understand the global impact of Arctic changes.
Joint STEM and 6G research to drive future technologies
The summit also prioritised collaboration in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. India and Nordic nations will undertake joint research projects, encourage partnerships between start-ups and incubators and work together on next-generation communication technologies such as 6G.The initiative is expected to strengthen innovation ecosystems on both sides.
Blue economy partnership widens Indo-Pacific cooperation
Cooperation in the blue economy received a major push, with both sides backing sustainable maritime practices and ship recycling activities.The partnership also aligns with India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy and the vision of “MAHASAGAR”, focusing on maritime security, ocean governance and a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
Easier movement for students, researchers and professionals
India and the Nordic countries agreed to promote greater mobility of talent, aiming to increase opportunities for students, researchers, academics and skilled professionals.The move is expected to encourage knowledge exchange, innovation partnerships and stronger people-to-people ties.
Defence collaboration opens new opportunities for Nordic firms
Defence industrial cooperation was identified as another key growth area. India highlighted investment opportunities for Nordic companies, including the provision of 100 per cent FDI in Indian Defence Industrial Corridors.The initiative could strengthen defence manufacturing partnerships, technology transfer and joint production in the sector.
