May 24 – Leaders from five Nordic countries — Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland and Denmark — met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Indian officials in Oslo on May 19 for the third India-Nordic Summit, as both sides moved to strengthen economic, technological and strategic cooperation amid growing global uncertainty.
Analysts say the summit reflects a broader global realignment, with countries increasingly seeking reliable economic and geopolitical partnerships in response to rising geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation and shifting global trade dynamics.
In a joint statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening a “robust and resilient global order” anchored in international law, peace, stability, sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.
The ministry described the summit as taking place during a period of “global geopolitical flux and rapid economic and technological transformation,” with both sides seeking to elevate relations into a “Green Technology and Innovation Strategic Partnership.”
The meeting comes months after India and the European Union concluded a free trade agreement and nearly a year after India signed a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
Discussions at the summit covered a wide range of issues including conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, climate action, renewable energy, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, water management, healthcare, education, defence cooperation, maritime security and space technology.
Analysts say the growing India-Nordic engagement highlights New Delhi’s efforts to deepen ties with northern Europe at a time of intensifying strategic competition involving the United States, China and Russia.
Belgrade-based journalist Ljubisa Ivanovic said India is pursuing broader partnerships to preserve what New Delhi views as its strategic autonomy while simultaneously expanding cooperation with Western economies.
He noted that India’s growing engagement with Europe could strengthen its geopolitical influence, particularly as tensions continue between India and China and amid broader Indo-Pacific competition.
London-based geopolitical analyst Priyajit Debsarkar said Europe is increasingly looking for alternative economic partners following disruptions in global trade patterns and ongoing tariff disputes.
According to Debsarkar, India presents an attractive long-term partner due to its democratic institutions, legal system and alignment with many European political and governance values.
The Nordic countries also reiterated their support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on a reformed and expanded United Nations Security Council, a move analysts say reflects India’s rising global influence.
Shobhit Mathur, vice chancellor of New Delhi-based Rishihood University, said the summit strengthens India’s international standing while advancing its ambitions in green transition and technological development.
Analysts further noted that the summit reinforced India’s image as an emerging global power seeking partnerships in advanced technology, clean energy and innovation-driven sectors.
The joint statement also acknowledged increasing strategic links between the Arctic and Indo-Pacific regions, with leaders emphasizing opportunities for cooperation in Arctic research. India currently holds observer status in the Arctic Council.
Economic cooperation featured prominently during the summit.
Under the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement signed in March 2024 and implemented in October 2025, EFTA countries committed to invest $100 billion in India over the next 15 years while supporting the creation of one million jobs.
EFTA comprises Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
Analysts say the agreement could significantly expand India-Nordic trade and investment ties, particularly in clean energy, sustainability, innovation and advanced manufacturing.
Pratik Dattani, founder of the London-based think tank Bridge India, said the agreement reflects growing efforts by countries to diversify economic partnerships amid changing global geopolitical realities.
He observed that both India and Nordic countries are increasingly seeking cooperation in areas where Western leadership has weakened, particularly in clean energy and sustainability sectors.
During Modi’s visit, India and Norway also upgraded bilateral ties to a “Green Strategic Partnership,” focusing on renewable energy, green shipping, maritime cooperation, Arctic research, technology and innovation.
Analysts say the growing relationship reflects the Nordic region’s view of India not only as a major market but also as an increasingly important geopolitical and strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
