PM Narendra Modi will travel to Oslo, Norway on May 15-16 to participate in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit. All five Nordic nations’ leaders—Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland—will be accompanying him.

The summit will center on increasing cooperation in commerce, innovation, green energy, climate change, and the blue economy. Geopolitics and discussions regarding world peace, security, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict are also likely to be key agenda points.

Strengthening bilateral relations

Before the summit, PM Modi had a telephonic talk with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. The leaders reiterated their commitment to the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership and exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in a range of sectors.

The Green Strategic Partnership, which was launched in 2020, has provided smooth conditions for Danish investments in India’s green transition.

India targets increased investment inflows from the sovereign funds of Nordic nations. Norway’s sovereign fund, also the biggest one globally, has been positive toward India and invested heavily in the Indian market. In 2023, it invested $841 million across 62 Indian corporations, indicative of its trust in India’s economy.

Shared values and global cooperation

Both India and the Nordics believe in a rules-based international order and support more representative, transparent, and effective world institutions. Both are also exploring cooperation on research in the Arctic and climate matters.

During the previous summit held in Denmark, leaders were of serious concern over the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and condemned the death of civilians. They decided to remain in constant touch on this matter, noting their dedication towards world peace and security.

Geopolitical consequences

The summit talks will probably cover the geopolitical situation, with an emphasis on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Nordic nations, by virtue of geographical proximity to Russia, have grave concerns regarding Russia’s continuous belligerence. Norway and Denmark are original members of NATO, whereas Sweden and Finland have applied to join the alliance in recent times. The summit results could shape the region’s security equation and India’s position in world geopolitical issues.

The visit of PM Modi to Norway for the India-Nordic Summit reflects India’s resolve to further deepen cooperation with the Nordic nations. The emphasis of the summit on trade, green energy, and international security is aligned with India’s strategic interests. With the world grappling with the complexities of geopolitical challenges, a deeper cooperation between India and the Nordic nations has the potential to shape a safer and more sustainable global future.